FACT FOR FICTION

FACT FOR FICTION, 2018

Acrylic paint on pre printed fabrics, thread and grommets, 4 pieces / 90 x 42 in. each.

With texts sourced from various English translations of stories derived from the medieval book Las Sergas de Espladián (tales of christian knights), where the mythical legend of Calafia was invented, this group of banners appropriates four quotes that highlight the empowered nature of the strong female characters of this story as an action of respect towards the symbol of the  woman warrior. Applied on pre-printed fabrics while assuming the form of church banners, to simulate the sacred reverence of icons.

process details, Mely Barragán´s studio in Tijuana Mexico

SHOWN AT: Reclaiming Myth

This exhibition is a study of the mythical origin story of the island of California as it relates to its present day citizens who live on both sides of the US/Mexican border. This multi-media exhibition showcases projects based upon the relation between modern day California and the region’s etymological source, Las Sergas de Esplandian by Garci Rodriguez de Montalvo. It features constructed archaeological artifacts, historical text and fabricated historical references produced by using modern technological methods of production as well as traditional means. This juxtaposition connects the allegorical significance of the tale with the “real” world of today.

Reclaiming  Myth’ is the culmination of a summer project that consists of works by inaugural Artist in Residence of the Department of Art at California State University, San Bernardino, Mely Barragán and selected students. The project consisted of a research phase of the source material followed by an investigation into learning technological modes of art making. Students worked collaboratively with Barragán and also individually to broaden their understanding of the influence of the tale across California, a geographical area that lies both north and south of the US/Mexico border.

Mely Barragán
Ryan Clark
Melora Garcia
Paul Garcia
Juan Nevares

organized by:
Ed Gomez

‘Reclaiming Myth’ was made possible by funds granted by the Office of Student Research, Summer Research Project at California State University San Bernardino. It is in collaboration with the Department of Art at California State University, San Bernardino, the Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art and the MexiCali Biennial.

Image: Mely Barragan. FACT FOR FICTION, 2018.
Acrylic paint on pre printed fabrics, thread and grommets, 4 pieces / 90 x 42 in. each.