This year, I had the privilege of returning to the Incubator residency for a second time—a transformative experience that not only deepened my practice but set me on a path of creating my latest piece, Aftertaste. Over the course of twelve weeks, I worked alongside fellow artists, whose critiques and encouragement inspired me to rethink how I communicate themes of memory, life, and death through my art.

Taking Aftertaste to Mexico City

When the invitation came to have Aftertaste exhibited in the Efímero | Vida, Muerte, Arte exhibition in Mexico City—my first international showing—it felt like the culmination of everything the residency had nurtured. Seeing my work evolve from an idea in the studio to being part of an international exhibition has been both surreal and fulfilling. Traveling to Mexico City for the opening of the exhibition was a personal milestone. Walking into the Centro Cultural Juan Rulfo, surrounded by the vibrant energy of the city and the excitement of fellow artists, was thrilling. As I stood in front of Aftertaste and watched the reactions of the viewers, I was reminded of the powerful connection art can create. The conversations sparked by the piece, the diverse interpretations, and the exchange of ideas brought me a profound sense of fulfillment.

A Journey Beyond the Canvas

This experience has reinforced how much I value the balance between solitary creation and collaboration. While Aftertaste began as a deeply personal reflection, it transformed through the collective input of the residency and the feedback of viewers in Mexico City. I was reminded that art does not exist in isolation—it thrives in community, whether in the studio or in public spaces.

From its conception during the Incubator residency to its exhibition at Efímero | Vida, Muerte, Arte, this journey has revitalized my creative practice. It has reignited my motivation to seek out opportunities that allow for both introspective creation and external feedback, fueling my resolve to continue pushing the boundaries of my work.

Efímero | Vida, Muerte, Arte

Aftertaste is on view at the Efímero | Vida, Muerte, Arte exhibition, which runs from October 4 to November 2, 2024, at the Centro Cultural Juan Rulfo in Mexico City (@ccjuanrulfo). You can also explore the works online at Artsy.net from October 4 to January 4, 2025. Be sure to check out the companion publication and podcast from The Bureau of Queer Art. My feature will air December 7, 2024. 

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