Artist Residency Program - Introducing Celica Ledesma

Celica Ledesma is a visual artist based in Austin, Texas and the first participant in our Artist Residency Program.

The goal of this program is to provide local artists with the opportunity and resources to create and share their work with the Austin artistic community. The selected participant will be provided with studio space for three months, culminating in a solo exhibition in our gallery space in The Arboretum.

Artist Statement:

“Due to my African American and Mexican American upbringing, the process of examining my own personal identity is complicated by the cultural and historical influences I’ve encountered. This examination becomes more difficult when trying to find a space for a visibly black, intersectional woman. Constantly finding myself in the in-between, my work stems from personal experiences, relationships with others, and reality. Reflection, comfort, and the multitudes of identity are found in interdimensional escapism and the alternate reality that unknowingly surrounds us. While trying to master realistic figurative painting I place my subject matters in a creative space meeting between reality merged with vibrant color palettes, fluid backgrounds, and transparent elements. To share my stories and observations, I attempt to give a transcendental experience paired with content involving social critique and metaphysical themes.”

We couldn’t be more excited to feature such an open, insightful artist. We have included some examples of Ledesma’s previous works below, and you can find more at www.celicaledesma.com/