This interview with Chicano artist Zarco Guerrero took place in March 2006 at his art studio in Mesa, Arizona. The interview format excludes the questions asked to Zarco Guerrero. His responses are presented in a continuous form.
(Mesa, Arizona) — “I create art as a way to advocate for social change. The Chicano Movement, which I participated in early on, provided us with a theme and a motto: ‘culture heals.’ We artists realized that art could be a tool for healing the community. I was a typical Chicano; born and raised in Arizona, I never learned about my culture or saw myself reflected in the media. However, my parents and grandparents instilled in me a strong sense of indigenous heritage and pride in my ancestors. My father, a sign maker and portrait painter, was born in Florence and lived in Mesa, Arizona, where we resided. My mother was a dressmaker. Witnessing my father’s constant creativity throughout my childhood undoubtedly influenced me. My mother even said I was an artist myself. Art has always been a part of me, and now that creative spirit lives on in my children. The first masks I encountered were in Guadalupe, Arizona, a place where the Yaqui heritage is prominent. My father would take me to indigenous ceremonies.
“In 1972, I traveled to Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico, to visit the master artist Francisco Zúñiga and to study muralism. I also went to the Fundación Águila de Bronce in Mexico City, where I learned techniques like frame making, wax casting, and bronze casting. There, I had the opportunity to meet some of the greatest artists, including David Alfaro Siqueiros, and even visit his workshop. Mexican art had a profound influence on me. Seeing the murals and paintings in Mexico helped me rediscover my roots. Pre-Columbian art was another source of inspiration for me. I also met ‘Los Mascarones,’ a Mexican theater group.
The mask in society
“While masks have historically been a significant instrument in ancient cultures, artists weren’t utilizing their power to promote cultural awareness. In Mexico and other southern regions, I observed that artists were primarily focused on becoming muralists or poets, neglecting the mask-making tradition. By chance, I found myself drawn into the world of masks. In Tepoztlán, Morelos, I met mask makers and became fascinated by Mexico’s rich mask-making tradition. At that time, mask making was primarily practiced by indigenous people. Despite my lack of resources, the indigenous people of Guerrero encouraged me to pursue mask making. Mexicans, particularly those of indigenous descent, have made significant contributions to humanity through this art form. I felt compelled to carry on this ancient tradition.
“Masks serve as a means of expressing cultural and human emotions. I personally use masks in schools to address social issues. People’s reactions to the masks are quite strong. Even pleasant masks can evoke fear in some viewers. Others, however, find them fascinating and appreciate the human expression they represent. My goal is to provide a cultural service here in Mesa. My artistic work has always functioned as a form of social service, which is why I believe people have embraced what I do. I’ve always strived for my art to reflect the community. I consider myself successful because I’ve been able to make a living as a painter, sculptor, musician, and educator. The struggles and dreams of the people, the issues they face in their neighborhoods, are central themes in my art.
Zarco Guerrero: art and culture as instruments of social change
“As an artist who utilizes art to promote social change, I am currently concerned about the well-being of newcomers, indigenous people, and young people. My purpose is to bring about societal change through non-violence, ensuring that everyone has dignity and receives justice. I see two sides to the coin: those who embrace change and those who resist it. As a Mexican mask maker, I recognize the duality of good and evil. Discrimination exists, and I’ve witnessed it first hand. However, art has empowered me to rise above negativity.
“After 30 years, Chicano art is finally gaining recognition in museums; the doors are opening. Art serves as a reflection of the community, showcasing our identity and the contributions we make to society. I am constantly meeting new artists, and I’m thrilled that my son, Quetzal, is among them. He’s a fantastic artist, and I’m incredibly proud of him. These new artists are like seeds sprouting and taking root. Cesar Chavez, a larger-than-life figure, inspired us. It brings me joy to see young people recognize the path we paved and the inspiration we provided. They bring immense strength to the movement.
“There’s a significant amount of work still to be done. The media can be a powerful opposing force. Television promotes violence, discrimination against people of color, and crime. The fight for justice is especially challenging for the rightful owners of this land. We have the right to live here, on the soil where our ancestors are buried. Our cause is an ongoing struggle. Ultimately, our traditions teach us how to live and die with dignity, like the native people before us. My greatest hope is to see indigenous people regain their dignity and pride within modern society, and for all of us to embrace the value and contributions of indigenous cultures.”
Visit Zarco Guerrero’s website
Zarco Guerrero is a painter, muralist, sculptor, mask maker, musician and actor from Arizona. Through culture and the arts, Guerrero seeks to promote and create positive social change. The artist has exhibited his sculptures and masks in Mexico, Brazil, Japan and throughout the United States. He is the founder of Xicanindio Artes, now Xico, Inc., and the Cultural Coalition in Phoenix, Arizona. His work has been instrumental in the development of Chicano arts throughout the state. Zarco is the artist in residence at ChildsplayAZ, and the creator of the El Puente Festival funded by the Doris Duke Foundation. He is currently a Master Fellow of the Southwest Folklife Alliance in Tucson, Arizona.
© 2006 - 2024, Eduardo Barraza. All rights reserved.
