Analiese Smith
BFA: Art with Studio Emphasis in Painting - Art History and Criticism Minor
Artist Name:
Analiese Smith
Work Title:
Buscando una Vida de Paz
Medium:
Oil on Panel, Tiles
Artist Statement:
In my piece, I confront the realities of living in the present through bringing together my Jewish and Mexican heritages. I draw from the model of Jewish “stumbling stones,” small brass plaques installed in public spaces to commemorate victims of the Nazi regime, designed to interrupt and force a passerby to stop and look. Adapting this concept, I honor the members of Hispanic and Latino communities who died in American detention centers in 2025. I render these names on ceramic tile inspired by Talavera, an art form deeply connected to Mexican visual tradition. This surrounds a central image that can represent any culture or race to suggest that no community is immune to persecution, but also to recognize our shared vulnerability.
Artist Bio:
As an artist, Analiese explores the human experience as a site of identity and social pressure. Her work creates a dialogue between personal experiences and our broader culture. While oil paint is her primary medium, she also engages in ceramics and sculpture to expand her ideas. In Analiese’s work, it is also important to show her ongoing journey towards self-acceptance due to conflicting heritages and expectations.
Artist Portfolio: