Lesly Villarreal does Via Arte for the first time and showcases artwork that combines cultures.
From Korean drama to Spanish TV shows, Lesly Villarreal, a senior majoring in studio arts, draws inspiration from all different cultures to create her masterpieces.
Via Arte is an annual sidewalk chalk showcase put on by The Bakersfield Museum of Art every October. Villareal had previously heard about it when she was in high school.
“I’ll give it a shot, I have never tried something on concrete before so that would be a neat experience.” Villarreal said.
Although excited, she also expressed how she worried that people wouldn’t understand her art.
“I do anime but I put historical references into it… I mix both into one and make it into a magical universe.” Said Villarreal.
Others at Via Arte also acknowledged Villareal’s masterpiece, such as David Gorden, award announcer and Tejon Outlets Bird Dog Arts Gallery owner @birdgogarts on Instagram.
Gordon told the crowd at Via Arte that Vallereal’s artwork deserved a phenomenal mention.
“That was tough to tackle… and it was phenomenal,” said Gorden to Vallareal in a side conversation.
Gordon encourages Villareal to take up more space and create her art on bigger canvases to maximize the details.
Villarreal explained that it was a privilege to participate in Via Arte, where space is created for artists to come together.
It’s not an easy task being bent down for two days and working on asphalt in the sun, and Villareal explained that she had back pain and numb legs.
Villareal hopes to one day create Japanese manga, yet add in her aspect appreciating different cultures and incorporating the recreation of kids’ fictional characters into the manga .
Arcelie Almaguer showcases artwork that touches many different communities:
An artist has the capacity to touch on issues like womanhood or Hispanic roots simply by the paint on a brush, or in this case, chalk on asphalt. For Arcelie Almaguer, a senior studying art education at CSUB, that is exactly her goal when she showcases her work.
Almaguer entered Via Arte for the first time this semester and submitted a Virgin Mary piece, something that she has previously painted before. She explained how an artist always keeps their eyes open for opportunities to get exposure and this seemed like a great idea.
“My artwork focuses around a lot of motherhood, women, women struggles, or motherhood taboos. focusing on Hispanic influences, so that’s why I chose to do a Virgin Mary.” Said Almaguer.
The Virgin Mary is a symbolic piece within the catholic religion and can hold a significant meaning to those who identify as catholic.
“Omg… [ she said softly] I am Catholic. We are devoted to the Virgin Mary… when I heard that they were going to have pieces, I wanted to go.” Said Rocio, from Arvin.
Rocio also explained how she feels as if the religion is losing its meaning. Having pieces on display for people to see, it builds hope and community within the religion.
Almaguer explained how she underestimated how long the process would take. She felt the heat, literally, on her and finished the artwork 30 minutes before it was due. She also explained how it was challenging, with it being her first time with the chalk, and that she was learning as she went.
“Even though I didn’t win anything, I saw so many people coming by and taking pictures, and it gives a sense of pride. I was also very happy to be able to represent Mexican Catholics.” wrote Almaguer in an email.
Almaguer brought her mission of sharing womanhood and Hispanic roots to life and touched many people who related to being Mexican or Catholic.
