Born in Las Vegas, Justin Favela is renowned for his large-scale installations in cartonería, the traditional Mexican art of piñata making. Favela celebrates his heritage and identity while reflecting on themes of Latinidad, cultural appropriation, and art history. By reflecting on the intersections of tradition and contemporary culture, Favela challenges the ways Latine identity is represented, commodified, and misunderstood in North American cultural spaces, inviting the viewers to reconsider notions of authenticity, value, and artistic ownership.
Favela’s installations create immersive spaces that playfully dismantle institutional hierarchies, making his work just as subversive as it is accessible and fun. Favela will give an exciting artist talk associated with a new site-specific installation at the Ulrich, opening August 4. This free event starts at 6 p.m., Thursday, July 31 and takes place in McKnight Art Center 210. Everyone is welcome!
