After her father passed away, artist Marea Cordero began learning more about his life growing up in the Philippines. And as she reconnected with the Filipino side of her family, she also began exploring the concept of ancestors more generally across cultures.
“Being a first-generation Filipino American descended from an immigrant father and American mother, I realize more and more that my experience is like that of so many others,” Marea says.
Art exhibit: Circle of Ancestors
Marea has channeled these explorations into an exhibit that will be on display in the Main Library Gallery in April and May.
Through cut-paper collages and mixed-media paintings, Circle of Ancestors explores the profound connection between the living, the environment, and ancestral lineage, focusing on themes of healing and honoring ancestral roots. Many works depict an imagined female ancestor who is “always guiding me,” Marea says.
- See the exhibit: April 7–May 16, Main Library Gallery
- Meet the artist: Saturday, April 11, 2–3:30 pm, Main Library Gallery
In addition to the exhibit, Marea will also lead two related programs in April and May (see below).
“I want to bring people of various origins together,” she says. “It is important to see the commonalities of ourselves in each other. In this tumultuous time of ICE violence and terror, we must look to our communities with love and service in order to survive, heal and grow. Art provides an opportunity to investigate the multilayered elements of humanity: anatomy, spirit, beauty, struggle, rest, and transition.”
Design a Pin With Glowforge Laser Cutter
Friday, April 24, 11 am, Main Library Creative Studio. Express yourself with wearable art! Learn how to use the Glowforge laser cutter to create a unique pin that reflects your identity and values. Drawing inspiration from the Circle of Ancestors exhibit, attendees will design wearable pins using symbols that resound with personal stories and values. Please register.
Healing Circle & Soul Collage Workshop
Saturday, May 9, 11 am, Main Library Veterans Room. In this workshop, Marea and participants will explore how ancestral connection, ancestral trauma, and strength are carried into the present; how individuals move through the world; and the importance of honoring heritage as a form of resistance. The Art Therapy technique of “Soul Collage” will be used to visualize and process these topics creatively. Registration coming soon.
More about the artist
Marea Cordero is a Filipino American artist and advocate for various communities. She is interested in the alchemy of art in the process of healing. To Marea, art, community and education are powerful tools for growth. She is a Sinag member, a Filipina on the Rise member, curator for the Lumpia annual art show, and a Chordoma Foundation Community member. Her work has been featured nationally in the Brushes with Cancer program. She is also a certified Healing Circle Facilitator and proud member of the Illinois Art Alliance.