I am an artist of the Nicaraguan diaspora who expresses their culture and lived experiences through art. I began painting when I moved to Baltimore as a self taught artist. I’ve explored foods I grew up eating like corn and cacao and followed the history to better understand my roots. I continue to expand my knowledge and understanding of myself and cultural roots as a fellow at Morgan State University working with the center of religion and cities in reading the Mayan creation story. I’m currently working on portraits and storytelling, however my earlier works have more to do with place.
How has a transformative experience impacted your work?
Being from Miami of Nicaraguan descent and moving to Baltimore inspired me to paint my experience as a multicultural person.
Jessy DeSantis
Companion Spirits, 2018
acrylic on canvas
24 x 30 inch
$12000
Art Meaning:
Curious, playful Red-lored Amazon parrots are perched on a street sign in southeast Baltimore across the street from a predominantly Latino elementary school. The colors found on the parrots are found in the street signs – a perfect blend and sense of belonging. The Mayan glyph for “companion spirit” is within the crosswalk sign and is spelled “way”.It’s the artist’s play on the English and Mayan language for right of way and companion spirit.
Love4Immigrants 