Since 2021
Artist Statement
The traditional practices of mask making, paper mache, and dress all inspire my work, as well as my queer identity. As a contemporary artist born on the West Coast of the United States, many of my ideas are tied to family, music, and cultural identity. I am motivated by the growing population of fellow Mexican-American individuals. I place myself between the realms of contemporary art and the traditions of Mexican culture.
As a visual artist, I’ve grown a deeper understanding of my Mexican American identity. Many times as a Latino I’ve felt displaced due to religion and language. It is my mission to explore these topics and create safe spaces for others who have felt excluded from their communities.
ARTIST BIO
BrassTuna (b. 2000) is a Phoenix, Arizona-based visual artist creating works centered around queer and Latine culture and how they overlap in the 21st century. Incorporating mask making, sculpting, sewing, and painting, BrassTuna immerses their photography style around the ideas of community building.
Born in Phoenix, Arizona, BrassTuna is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and continues to further their practice in photography by curating different ideas and techniques into their work.
In 2023, BrassTuna started their physical exhibition debut with “Jardin De Flores” at the ALAC in downtown Phoenix. BrassTuna then went on to showcase a more intimate version of this project at the FOUND:RE Contemporary Gallery in downtown Phoenix. BrassTuna is currently planning their first-ever solo exhibition set for late 2025.