Freshman artists express their ‘visions of equality’ in Autry Museum exhibition
Visual arts teacher Cassandra Gonzales was about to begin a unit examining the artist’s role in social justice and equality issues when she received an announcement from the Autry Museum in Griffith Park. Museum officials were seeking student submissions for a new show titled Visions of Equality. Students were asked to consider several questions. “What has equality meant in the Western past? What does it mean today? And what are the ways that we might create equality for all the peoples of the West?”
Ms. Gonzales knew her upcoming lesson was a good fit for the Autry exhibition—and she hatched a secret plan. She taught her unit as planned, focusing on how the printmaking medium has long been a tool for communicating messages. Students researched a topic they were passionate about and created a wood carving that could be used over and over, like a giant stamp.
“Printmaking and posters are historic mediums for conveying messages related to social justice issues and protest movements,” Ms. Gonzales said. “Rather than a single canvas, the artist has the ability to spread the message to the masses.”
When their assignments were complete, Ms. Gonzales revealed the twist. Without any pressure, she had seamlessly prepared the freshman artists to submit their work to the Autry for possible selection in the exhibit. She wanted them to care about their work first rather than feel stressed about creating a competitive entry.
Students chose a variety of weighty issues: animal cruelty; an end to discrimination based on race, gender, or sexual orientation; an expression of support for the Black Lives Matter movement; better awareness of mental health issues; immigrant rights.
Six freshmen submitted their work and all of them received the good news that they were awarded a spot in the Visions of Equality exhibit that ran in April and May 2019.
“This was very personal to me and it was a bit scary because I didn’t want to be judged because of my art,” said Lola Falese ’22, whose work depicted tears falling from different shades of brown designed to represent a face. “Mine was about my skin color and how I know people are suffering because there is still not equality in the world… but it’s important to make a statement in solidarity with others.”
Amelia Vasquez ’22 said she advocated for compassion for immigrants by depicting a wall with barbed wire in her carving.
“I kind of went out on a limb for this, not knowing what other people would think,” Amelia said. “But the fact I tried and I liked my work is what mattered.”
Both the class project and museum exhibit opportunity sent a strong message to students.
“I feel as artists we can express opinions in very powerful ways,” Amelia said. “When you see something in a museum it can be so impactful. It can change your perspective.”
Congratulations to Autry exhibit artists Lola Falese ’22, Kate Thompson ’22, Drew Valentino ’22, Amelia Velasquez ’22, Piper West ’22 and Kaylee Youn ’22.
Established in 1931, Mayfield Senior School in Pasadena, CA is a Catholic, independent, college preparatory school for young women grades 9-12. Noted for its rigorous academic program, which includes 28 Advanced Placement and Honors courses, Mayfield’s curriculum is underscored by a philosophy of educating the “whole child,” which also encourages commitment to and excellence in the arts, athletics, community service and spiritual growth. The nurturing environment at Mayfield Senior School allows each student to flourish in an atmosphere of personal attention.
