Verónica Preciado

Verónica Preciado is a multidisciplinary Xicanx artist based in California’s Inland Empire. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of California Irvine having studied art, engineering, and medical humanities. Primarily using metal fabrication, Verónica’s interactive sculptural installations focus on the Xicanx community and issues of social justice. There is an ever presence of questioning existing conditions and pushing for equitable change within her work.

Utilizing welding, metal shrinking/stretching, and hand forming techniques, Verónica takes a flat sheet of metal and creates detailed works of art. She strikes a balance between symbolism, steel’s industrial nature and a sense of delicacy. Layers of symbols: color, design, and installation reference the vibrancy of the Xicanx culture. In her recent series of welded steel luchador masks, the masks look traditional in shape but echo armor and cultural motifs. In Galaxy Cruiser, Verónica envisioned a future of lowriders where the community continues to thrive with spaceships adorned in candy paint and chain link steering wheels. It is with this combination of fabrication skills and conceptual theories that Verónica is able to advocate for the Xicanx community.

Verónica’s artwork transmits ideas when language fails to articulate them. She has been inspired by Adrian Piper and Ana Mendieta to create artwork that asks the audience to evaluate themselves and the systems in which we function. Through this review, our society may begin to improve.