Yocelyn is our October 2019 Artist of the Month! Her colorful pieces bring life to people and populations often left out of the mainstream media. Check out our full interview with her below!

Jenny Kearney: What experiences inspired you to get involved with activism through art?

Yocelyn Riojas: I was already involved in activism, and my art just happened to cross over. My parents were migrant workers who became attorneys serving back to the community, such as farmworkers and asylum seekers. I've always been aware of their work, immigration, and cultural identity. Growing up with very little representation in the media, I noticed there weren't a lot of images or work created by the people within the movement. I felt the need to start filling that void with illustrations of people of color we don't see highlighted in a positive light or given a platform to amplify their struggle. I celebrate their existence. We have voices, and we can speak for ourselves!

JK: What projects have you been working on recently?

YR: Currently, I have an exhibit in collaboration with RAICES and Gerardo Silguero at Mexi-Arte Museum. My part of the installation is a gallery of bandanas with hand-written messages by visitors about what immigration means to them with a lot of heartfelt words. Alongside it is a short film with simple animation to help highlight the interview of a young girl's story crossing the border and her experience in ICE.

JK: What accomplishment are you most proud of?

YR: I'm most proud that I have the trust and support of my community to keep on producing work that reflects the stories and faces we need to hear or see.