Photo Referece:

Mood Board:

Moving away from my hometown, Bogotá, Colombia, has profoundly shaped my identity, a theme deeply embedded in this painting, which I consider a self-portrait. Relocating to a bustling metropolis like New York City, it's easy to feel adrift and disconnected from your former self—yet this transformation isn't necessarily negative. This artwork is inspired by a childhood photograph taken by my grandmother, capturing me and my siblings painting a vast, blank canvas. I have faithfully replicated our poses and the setting from that original photo, yet I altered the subject of our painting to weave a poignant narrative.

On the right side of the canvas, my sister and brother are depicted painting a series of orchids, the national flower of Colombia. This choice symbolizes my roots and the aspects of my hometown I've left behind in moving to New York City, evoking the cherished memories shared with my family. Conversely, on the left, a younger version of myself paints a series of lilies, which, although incomplete, represent my new life. Lilies, which I frequently encounter in New York, have become a symbol of beauty and a new beginning for me.

The ongoing creation of the lilies in the painting signifies that although my journey in New York has been challenging, I am still navigating and shaping my path day by day. This painting, therefore, is not just a reflection of past memories but also a canvas depicting the continuous evolution of my identity.