Michelle Ramirez

ARTIST STATEMENT

I have never been truly in touch with my heritage as I was born and raised in the United States. Seeing how my family spoke so highly of their experiences led me to have a longing of being able to be part of that experience. However, where would I begin if I didn’t even know where I am going?

The earliest connection I’ve had with Mexico was a traditional holiday called Day of the Dead. Celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, it is a tradition that goes back to ancient Aztec civilization where we honor our loved ones who have passed on. We give them offerings for the long voyages they made trying to get back to the world of the living. This was the holiday where I felt most complete.

Celebrating it now, as I have grown in my career, I was inspired to make a drink where it could be placed and enjoyed at the annual banquets. Taken inspiration from artists like Takashi Murakami and Joyce Pensanto, my work incorporates both vivid colors and wild forms of design.