Joseph Velasquez

Joseph Velasquez

 

Artist Statement 

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I am a proud American of Chicano heritage, shaped by a family with a long tradition of service to the United States military. My current work explores the stories of my great-grandfather, Catarino Velasquez, whose journeys across the Southwestern United States embody both our indigenous roots and our family’s dedication to this country. Passed down through oral tradition, his narratives inspire visual works that honor the resilience of blue-collar Americans and celebrate the cultural richness of our heritage.

Drawing on the tradition of corridos—the storytelling songs of Mexico and the American Southwest—I create what I call Corridos Visuales, or “visual songs.” Through intricate, hand-carved imagery and symbols drawn from Chicano heritage and popular culture, these works depict the endurance of people who have faced hardship, injustice, and change. While rooted in my family’s experiences, the themes of courage, perseverance, and service speak to a broad audience.

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This ongoing body of work serves as a bridge between past and present. It reflects my commitment to honoring those who served, amplifying voices that have too often been overlooked, and inviting viewers to find connections to their own histories. By sharing these stories, I aim to celebrate the strength and vibrancy of our shared American experience and to foster dialogue, understanding, and unity.

 

        

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