Ortiz, Sheccid

"Salvation through Growth"

Colored Pencil and Gold Foil

18” x 12”

College Sophomore

Artist Statement: This piece is a visual reflection of how education has transformed my life. For me, education is more than school; it’s been my salvation. During moments when home didn’t feel like home, or when I struggled to fit into traditional expectations, learning and art became my safe space, a place where I could belong, express myself, and imagine something greater.

The central figure, with a moth as a symbolic mask, represents myself. I chose a moth instead of a butterfly because moths are just as beautiful, but often overlooked, just like people who go unnoticed but carry deep strength and potential. Education has allowed me to see my worth and learn how to fly in my own way.

The mushrooms and leaves growing throughout the piece represent resilience. In Mexican culture, there’s a saying: "La vida no está hecha de flores y rosas", which means life isn’t always beautiful or easy. But even in darkness, we grow. Like mushrooms, we can thrive in unexpected conditions and become something unique.

The skulls in the background symbolize the pain, fears, and limitations I’ve had to leave behind old versions of myself or the struggles that shaped me. They’re not meant to evoke fear, but to honor survival and transformation. They remind me that through education, I’ve been able to break cycles, heal, and build a future beyond what I once thought possible.

Education didn’t just teach me, it gave me a new life. It helped me grow through the complex parts, transform my identity, and keep reaching for something greater.

Artist Bio: I'm a proud Mexican and Hispanic artist with a deep hunger for greatness. I'm always seeking new opportunities to grow, create, and challenge myself. I love experimenting with new materials and ideas, letting them guide my creative journey. Much of my work features plants, not because I'm an expert, but because I've always been captivated by their beauty and the life they bring to our surroundings. I'm passionate about connecting with my community through art and inspiring those around me.