RACHEL-ANNE PALACIOS

Portfolio

Rachel's MySpace Page

Inspired by honoring the spirit of our ancestors, most of my artwork revolves around
the cultural traditions of Day of the Dead. Since the idea of dying is something that we
all have in common, I am keeping a balance by honoring the dead and celebrating life.
Utilizing a variety of mediums-from recycled goods to house wares to the human body-I
have succeeded in captivating a common thread while paying tribute to past and present artists. I am a self-taught artist and an Oakland Native. My cultural ancestry is Mexican, Peruvian and El Salvadorian. I am part of the Oakland Artisan Marketplace and sell my
work at the Jack London Square farmer's market on Sundays. In addition to my artwork,
I was a panelist for the Oakland Cultural Arts Funding Program in 2003 & 2004. This year
I am the acting cultural funding program assistant for the City of Oakland’s Cultural Funding Program. I am also an active member of the Dia de los Muertos Committee at the Oakland Museum as well as the exhibit guide coordinator for the annual Dia de Los Muertos exhibition. As a community cultural activist, I am able to share my creative visions and experiences
on a multi-cultural and intergenerational level. I hope to continue creating a positive focal
point for our community by heightening respect for cultural awareness and for our elders. By providing an alternative learning environment, I believe that we can learn about each other’s culture and re-connect with our own. While doing this we can re-establish family values,
create unity and come together in harmony.