48 x 72, Acrylic on canvas, 2011

‘An honest man, is a man of mixed origins’
Michel de Montaigne

Aurora Diaz’s sense of identity is the main subject of her work; it reflects the influences of a culture that is layered and complex. Pre-Hispanic iconography, myths and legends become primordial characters in the work. The intricate shapes and colors reflect the influences of the Mayans, Aztecs and Toltecs layered with the Spanish culture and its own mixed influences of the Moors, Jews and Europeans.

The imagery derives from legends and myths passed on from generation to generation. The figures are gods and goddesses that represent the archetypes of human need. The work is inspired by the duties and pleasures of the women of her rich ancestry. Specifically Chantico -She who dwells in the house- or Ix Chel –the goddess of midwifery and medicine in the Mayan culture. As in mythology, the text in these works is often layered like ancient historical scrolls and faces are pointing towards the heavens.

31 1⁄2” x 47 1⁄2”, acrylic, ink, paper, 2011

31 1⁄2” x 47 1⁄2”, acrylic, ink, paper, 2011

31 1⁄2” x 47 1⁄2”, acrylic on paper, 2011

31 1⁄2” x 47 1⁄2”, acrylic on paper, 2011

In Diaz’s palette we see the bold colors of Mexico and the exaggerations of Picasso’s synthetic cubism. By adjusting and re-readjusting shapes and forms and juggling bright colors Diaz is able to combine a rebus of flat space that mimics the rebus of her cultural roots and artistic influences. Shapes kiss and dance together appearing and reappearing through the pieces.

Interlocking forms are arranged and juxtaposed to balance flat areas while directional edges move the viewer through the composition. Organic and hard edge shapes derive from the influence of Matisse’s cut outs and long time mentor George Parrino; flat planes are carefully assembled and jumbled into lively play. Not unlike her roots her style stems from mixed origin and diverse influences.

36” x 48”, acrylic on canvas, 2011

31 1⁄2” x 47 1⁄2”, acrylic, ink, paper, 2011

31 1⁄2” x 47 1⁄2”, acrylic, ink, paper, 2011

31 1⁄2” x 47 1⁄2”, acrylic, ink, paper, 2011

Deeply inspired by Carlos Fuentes’ “Buried Mirror” the work is dedicated to a search for the “cultural continuity that informs and transcends the political disunity and fragmentation” of my Mexico.

Diaz states: “We are ultimately living records of our past and my paintings are one Mexican’s excavation and reinterpretation of my culture’s living history”