Doris | Oil on Panel | 32" x 24" | 2012

Mad Women-ish | Oil on Panel | 48" x 48" | 2012

Artist Statement: As a visual artist with an academic background in archaeology, socio-cultural anthropology, and video, I view artists as cultural producers. I attempt to combine these practices into a cultural investigation that operates as an analysis of the personal and collective. My work currently consists of narratives that investigate my own traditions and history. This exploration has lead me to rely on photographs, anecdotes, family recipes, horticulture, and the tradition of crafting as something concrete in order to construct my own autobiography. I think of this examination as a rite of passage into a globalized society, as I simultaneously attempt to find my niche within it.

Anna Valdez is a visual artist living in Northern California. Her interest in pursuing the Fine Arts took root during her undergraduate studies in Anthropology. She recently graduated from Boston University in May 2013 with an MFA in painting. Her work has been featured in New American Paintings (Issue #105). She works primarily as a painter and animator. To see more of her work visit: annavaldez.com.