Just a Title

In "Just a Title", Stephanie Mercado examines and interprets how history is recorded. She transforms the narrative by introducing gaudy gold chains and cartoonish dollar bills. These contemporary elements reveal how the power of images have influenced American culture, fostering the proverbial “American Dream”. Mercado’s recent portraits of maids tell a story about power, class, and human relationships. The portraits explore themes of subjugation and the nuances by which people try to maintain their identity, dignity, and independence. The black and white uniforms of the maids define a role that depersonalizes them, but their multicolored legs reflect a rich psychological existence. Each character is caught in a place between reality and a world that is deformed and shaped by the people who control their environment. Stephanie Mercado received her B.F.A. in Drawing and Painting from California State University (Long Beach, CA). She was also part of California State University’s, Drawing and Painting International Program. This year, Mercado’s work was included in the group show, Contemporary Retellings, at the Colorado Center for the Arts (Grand Junction, CO). Additionally, her work has been featured in various solo and group exhibitions throughout California and Texas. Stephanie Mercado currently resides in Los Angeles.