Artist Statement
In my art, I resurrect forgotten subjects of the past using glass and Paper as my canvas. The unforgiving yet freeing nature of glass guides my process. After creating, I capture emotions through impressions, transferring images from glass to paper.
Through mixed media painting and handmade prints, I convey not just color but also the essence of my subjects' souls. Beyond vibrant hues lies a quest for truth, each piece carrying critical messages—unveiling history, and challenging romanticized pedagogy.
My journey involves deconstructing objects and ideas, exploring the impact of labor, presenting art as an alternative to violence. I strive to captivate and provoke contemplation, inviting viewers into a world of untold stories and unexplored truths.
Bio:
With over 7 years of experience working in Higher Education, Jesse Avila (he.him) is a passionate advocate for empowerment, diversity, and inclusion. Holding a BA in Art from the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB) and a Masters in Organization and Leadership from the University of San Francisco, Jesse brings a unique blend of artistic creativity and organizational leadership to his work.
Formerly serving as the Program Director for the MultiCultural Center at UCSB, Jesse has dedicated his career to creating inclusive spaces and empowering marginalized communities. He has facilitated numerous workshops and panels, focusing on topics such as diversity, equity, inclusion, LGBTQ+ empowerment, and art as a catalyst for social change.
Education
MAsters in organization & Leadership in Higher Education - University of San Francisco, 2023 - Link to Thesis: https://repository.usfca.edu/thes/1466/
Certificate w/ Distinction, Student Affaris and Higher Education Administration, University of California Berkely Ext., 2021
bachelors in Art - University of California, Santa Barbara - 2014
Awards/Scholarships
Faculty Award of Distinction - 2014
William Dole Memorial Fund - 2014
Selected Exhibitions
Abstract Open iv - Channing Peake GALLERY, Santa Barbara - 2018/2019
A Santa Barbara Abstract Art Collective Juried Exhibition in Collaboration with the Santa Barbara County Arts Commission
Abstract Open IV Cont. - Betteravia Gallery, Santa Maria - 2019
Workshops
2023 – Interest Convergence and Neoliberalism: Effects on Entry Level-Staff of Color, NASPA, Kansas City, MO
2023 – Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Workshop, UCSB MultiCultural Center, Santa Barbara, CA
2022 – LGBTQ+ Working in Higher Education Panel, UCSB RCSGD, Santa Barbara, CA
2020 – LGBTQ+ Art and Empowerment, UCR QTPOC Conference, Riverside, CA
2020 – Art and Activism, UCI CaCCCHE’s Student Scholar Conference, Irvine, CA
2019 – Art and Activism, UCSB MCC Empowering Student Leaders Series, Santa Barbara, CA
2019 – The Power of Art to Incite Change, UCSB MCC Social Justice Conference, Santa Barbara, CA
