The “Creating in Community: A Group Exhibition,” curated by Alessandra Moctezuma. From June 3 to June 18, 2024, the gallery showcased the diverse talents of artists from Space 4 Art, a community-based arts center that has nurtured creativity since 2009. Among the featured artists is Ivan Medida, a Southwestern College (SWC) student, whose journey exemplifies the transformative power of art and community.
For Medida, being part of this exhibition is a milestone that holds deep personal significance. Growing up, Medida often felt invisible in the art world, where narratives like his were rarely represented. “I’ve never really seen myself in these spaces growing up, but being showcased in an art show holds immense significance for me as an emerging artist and designer,” Medida reflects. His presence in this exhibition is not just about showcasing his work but also about making space for stories and experiences that are often overlooked.
Medida’s art is a vibrant testament to the unique narrative of Filipino-American identity. He believes that art spaces for students like him serve as crucial platforms for cultural expression and identity affirmation. “Art spaces for younger generations of Filipino-American students serve as vital pipelines for cultural expression and identity affirmation, allowing us to celebrate our history and heritage while navigating our dual identities,” he says. Through his art, Medida challenges stereotypes, promotes inclusivity, and strives for a more equitable representation of Filipino-Americans in the arts.
Reflecting on his piece, “The Great Actor,” Medida explores the complex theme of people-pleasing within social dynamics. “To me, this is more or less a commentary on the concept of people pleasing, expressed in capturing my tendency to constantly shift and morph myself to ‘fit in’ and how this trait can lead to a loss of genuine self-expression,” he explains. This narrative touches on the broader issue of dual-identity among Filipino-Americans, particularly the pressure to adapt behaviors and personalities to align with different social expectations, often at the cost of one’s own culture and authenticity.
Medida’s journey is fueled by a curiosity and a deep commitment to community engagement. His advice to incoming students resonates with those who are navigating the complexities of finding one’s place in the art world. “Entering a space with quiet contemplation may bring tranquility, but stepping into a space with contagious curiosity reveals the path of life,” he advises. “Engage with your peers, professors, the community around you, and beyond. Be inquisitive about different perspectives and experiences, and allow yourself to be open to new ideas and challenges, while giving yourself grace.”
This philosophy of curiosity and openness is mirrored in Medida’s own work. His art is a representation of personal narrative and broader cultural themes, inviting viewers to explore and engage with the stories he tells. By participating in “Creating in Community,” Medida hopes to inspire others to embrace their creativity and identities, fostering a sense of bayanihan (“community”) and belonging.
For Medida, “Creating in Community” is more than an exhibition; it is a stepping stone in his artistic journey and a beacon of hope for future generations of artists. His participation not only empowers him but also serves as an inspiration for others to challenge stereotypes, promote inclusivity and pave the way for a more equitable representation of themselves in the arts.
