About The Event
Join our Artist in Residence, Jaer Medina, for a talk and hands-on workshop exploring the central theme in his new exhibition: tiangius. A tiangius is an open-air market found in Mexico and Central America, rooted in pre-Hispanic Aztec culture. In this workshop, you will learn from the artist about the significance of these marketplaces in Mexican culture and how these centers of community can inspire change and connection in your own neighborhood. Using familiar materials like paint, cardboard, chiseled sharpies, duct tape and other found materials, participants will create their own posters– similar to those found in tianguis–that express meaningful sentiments and experiment with mark-making inspired by ancient pre-Hispanic symbols. Tour the exhibition and find inspiration for visioning and dreambuilding in your own community, while learning about the rich history behind your creation. Enjoy a Mezcal cocktail and connect through conversation while creating together.
Jaer Medina
Jaer Medina (b. 2001) is a Chicano artist and educator based in Holland, Michigan. He is a graduate of Grand Valley State University’s Department of Visual and Media Arts. Working across photography, collage, sculpture, and social practice, he builds his work with readily available tools. He often tinkers with found materials, home printers, and simple tools, such as hammer and nails to create work that is grounded in accessible craft. His practice challenges urban-normative ideas of culture by centering the space-making and creative traditions of Midwestern Mexican-American communities.
Outside his visual art practice, Jaer runs CREA, a community-centric art space and incubator exploring the role of art in public life through exhibitions, workshops, neighborhood newspapers, and other forms of public programming. He also serves as an instructor and program assistant at CultureWorks Transformative Art + Design Academy.
