Loading...
Document Type
Interview
Publication Date
4-23-2025
Keywords
Santa Clara County, Pictoral Art, Religion, Transman, Mixed Heritage, Online
Abstract
This interview with Zachary Fernandez, a pictorial art student at San José State University, provides a look into the intersection of mixed heritage, transgender identity, and the use of painting as a medium for healing trauma. Fernandez highlights the profound acceptance they found within the Mexican side of their family, where multiple LGBTQ+ family members paved the way, contrasting with the internalized racism he encountered elsewhere. Fernandez's artistic practice focuses heavily on self-portraiture, often utilizing an alla prima technique to capture fleeting emotional states before they can be tucked away. Fernandez's work frequently incorporates Catholic motifs, though they clarifies these are markers of Mexican cultural heritage rather than religious devotion. Fernandez's story serves as an example of how art functions as a healing practice. As part of the Mosaic Atlas project, Mosaic Staff and Volunteers, SJSU students, and faculty from the Anthropology and Film, Theater, and Dance Departments interviewed people who support and produce art throughout the Bay Area.
Recommended Citation
Zachary David Fernandez and Johnny Santaella. "Mosaic Atlas: Interview with Zachary Fernandez" Mosaic Atlas Interviews (2025).
Transcript
Network
LGBTQ+ BIPoC Artists
Address
San Jose, Santa Clara County
Neighborhood
Santa Clara County
