Sep. 1, 2020 @ 7:00 am – Sep. 30, 2020 @ 7:00 am
About the Artist
Peso Zapata (born Alex Zapata July 25, 1991 in Stockton, California) is an American painter, photographer, and sculptor currently living in Houston, Texas. Peso Zapata is most known for his depictions of Latin and US-related topics using pop art as a reference. Quoting Emiliano Zapata “I’d rather die on my feet, than live on my knees.” Peso Zapata interprets it as “die with dignity and live life the way you want, rather than live serving people without self respect to yourself.” Self-identity had always been a constant battle for the artist growing up, proving himself Mexican or American enough and as a result, struggling to accept his own cultural identity.
Artist Statement
“My current practice is not medium specific but engages with particular social and public issues. I scavenge discarded material and objects in the street and use them as a base for my work. My source imagery is derived from multiple news media photographs of current situations targeting people of color. I look to employ artwork as a weapon in the fight for human rights against violence and ongoing injustice. Human rights can no longer be thought of as separate and belonging to a privileged few, but rather that these rights are all interrelated, interdependent and indivisible for all. It’s in the constitution, right there in back and white. Liberty and justice for all. I believe my work will help to foster these important conversations worldwide and invite artists to add their voice. Art can inspire change and bring people together, crossing the borders of cultures and languages. For some, the United States is a true meaning of the “American Dream”, yet, for many individuals, basic human and civil rights are reduced and jeopardized with a judicial system that has crumbled confidence and trust, and with racism fathered through groups that have inherent power to institutionalize prejudice in the forms of laws, policies, and beliefs that exclude and oppress others.”
Changarrito cart September 12 – 13
Artists have the opportunity to sell their art on the Changarrito cart in front of the Museum (or an offsite location, as representative for the Museum during various Austin festivals). Changarreando expands the reach of the artist by presenting their gallery online, while allowing the option to sell merch over Instagram and receive 100% of the sale.
Peso Zapata featured his artwork on the Changarrito cart outside the Museum’s entrance on September 12th and 13th, 2020.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates on original work available for purchase and behind the scenes of the artist’s work, space, and creative process.