Bienvenidos a la Wells
December 14, 2021 – January 21, 2022
Curated by Sal Bajaras-Alvarez and Annaiz Ramirez
Bienvenidos a la Wells, explored how Chicanx culture has influenced contemporary young artists. Chicanx culture began as a reclamation identity that opposed Anglo-American culture, it aimed to recognize the Mexican identity that can be traced back through one’s roots while still validating the American identity that existed because of where one was born, lived, or grew up. Chicanxs often see themselves as being de aqui y de aya, both from here and there, as two cultures combine to create something that is totally new. From this, the Chicanx culture shares a history of rebellion and resilience. Bienvenidos a la Wells aims to bring this to the forefront as it is so often given little recognition and every artist included in the show either identify as or is inspired by Chicanidad.
Featuring works by Savior Studios, Anew by Oscar Rodriguez, Jasmine “Jasquedez” Allam, Los Viejitos Bike Club, Reno Chapter, Jacquelyn Rodriguez, Cesar Emanuel Lopez, and Luis Hernandez.
Savior Studios began as a clothing brand and has now evolved into a creative collective that is all-encompassing. It is intended to be a portfolio for both Sal Bajaras-Alvarez and annaiz ramirez, as a place for all of their work to live as it evolves over time. In its current state, they have dedicated themselves to curating the contemporary work of younger artists while focusing on the transformation of non-traditional spaces. Though they will always maintain their foundation of creating clothing, it is not the finished version. Savior Studios strives to create community with both creatives and non-creatives alike.
Sal Barajas is a Graphic Communications artist who is currently working towards a degree in the field. He primarily works in branding communication and typography. Sal also co-runs Savior Studios and under this, he has had the opportunity to work in many mediums including photography, screen printing, and product development.
annaiz ramirez is a contemporary exhibit organizer who has recently gained her degree in Art History with a focus on Latinx Studies and Museum Studies from the University of Nevada, Reno. She has interned for the John and Geraldine Lilley Museum of Art and just recently co-curated an exhibit in partnership with the Lilley and the Reno Arts and Culture Commission that exhibited in Reno’s City Hall. Annaiz also co-runs Savior Studios and through this she has been able to expand her work in curation, contemporary art historical writing and creative direction.
This exhibition was part of our 2022 Curator Series which is supported in part by Nevada Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities.