The collection of sculptural vessels and paintings in “Aquí Pertenezco” portrays the emotional journey of an immigrant. It delves into the idea of preserving one’s cultural identity while adapting to a new environment, capturing the unwavering aspirations of immigrants to achieve the American Dream despite the daunting challenges of cultural shock, nostalgia, and identity crises. This journey ultimately ends with immigrants finding a sense of peace, feeling at home, and taking pride in their cultural heritage while embracing a new way of life.
Born in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Azalia Molina is a multidisciplinary artist who uses clay, printmaking, and painting to reveal Latin America’s culture, traditions, and social problems while exploring how these are preserved within immigrant households in the United States. Molina earned a BS in Art and Business from the University of the Ozarks in 2018. She continues her creative career through commissioned work, public artwork, and leading her marketing agency, Clever, in NWA. Molina hopes to run an outreach center in her native country, providing skills and art programs for at-risk youth.