Raíces
Category: Visual Art
Author(s): Karyme Altamirano
Presenter(s): Karyme Altamirano
Mentors(s): Yaneli Munoz
This project is deeply rooted in my identity as a Latina woman and reflects both my personal journey and the community that has supported me along the way. Through this piece, I aim to honor my past while also representing my future as a first-generation college student. Growing up, the idea of pursuing higher education often felt uncertain and out of reach. As Latina student navigating limited resources and opportunities, I found myself constantly searching for pathways that would allow me to continue my education. Many of the doors I encountered felt closed because of my circumstances, but my mother’s encouragement remained a constant source of strength. Her simple yet powerful words, “I proud you,” reminded me that my efforts mattered and that my dreams were worth pursuing. Motivated by her support and the sacrifices made by my family, I continued knocking on every door I could find. That persistence, combined with the unwavering presence of my familia, allowed me to reach a goal that once felt distant: entering higher education. However, this moment is not the end of my journey but rather a continuation of it. The main element of this project is a meaningful garment passed down from my grandmother—her falda de danza folklórica. This skirt represents cultural inheritance, resilience, and generational strength. I have transformed and personalized the skirt by embellishing it with sequins, symbolizing both celebration and the evolving nature of identity. Its final showcase features the complete outfit, accompanied by photographs of the garment and makeup styled in the tradition of a catrina. Together, these elements highlight the beauty of cultural legacy while honoring my journey toward education and self-expression.