(Orange, CA) - Displaying artwork reflecting the disparities of social lifestyles and the questionable economic systems that contribute to those imbalances, Santiago Canyon College (SCC) is showcasing the work of Mexican-born artist Narsiso Martinez through April 17.
Martinez’s show, Reclaimed Agriculture, features drawings and paintings produced on cardboard boxes collected from various grocery stores or through the use of produce-box graphics that reflect his personal experience with the agriculture industry.
“Working in the fields for many years has made me realize that there is a big difference between the lifestyles of the struggling workers and that of the wealthy agribusiness owners,” he said. “Through the juxtaposition of produce labels from reclaimed produce boxes and images of agricultural workers on those boxes, I attempt to create compositions that allow me to reflect on the disparities of social lifestyles and the questionable economic systems that contribute to them. I see my work as a common ground for conversation between the well-off and the less fortunate.”
Martinez hopes to shine a light on the lives of migrants toiling in the fields and reflects on personal experiences through his art. Born in the central Mexican city of Oaxaca, Martinez immigrated to the United States at age 20 to pursue a better life. After completing high school at 29, Martinez began taking classes at Los Angeles City College where he developed a passion for portraiture before earning an associate in arts. He went on to obtain both a bachelor’s and master’s of fine arts from California State University, Long Beach (CSULB). While obtaining his education, Martinez worked for large produce companies in an effort to raise the funds needed to reach his educational goals.
His art has been featured in multiple group and solo shows, most recently at the Long Beach Museum. Reclaimed Agriculture is a “small, but meaningful” collaboration with CSULB printmaking professor Roxanne Sexauer.
The SCC Art Gallery is located on the east side of the campus’ D-Building, 8045 E. Chapman Avenue in Orange. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or by appointment.
About Santiago Canyon College
Santiago Canyon College (SCC) serves more than 17,000 credit and noncredit students each semester. In 2017, SCC was ranked #13 among the 50 Best Community Colleges in the U.S. by College Choice, a leading authority in college and university rankings and resources. The college prepares students for transfer to four-year institutions and careers, and provides courses for personal and professional development, as well as customized training for business and industry. The college is recognized for its adult education program which keeps the working adult - and senior - in mind by offering flexible schedules, and community locations. Serving the residents of Anaheim Hills, Orange, Tustin, and Villa Park, SCC is one of two comprehensive colleges under the auspices of the Rancho Santiago Community College District.
###
