Susana Avila

Susana Avila

Degree Completed

BFA in Graphic Design

Artist Statement

I’m a graphic designer and a multidisciplinary artist. As an immigrant, I am passionate about using my art and design to fight social justice. I work across disciplines using painting, illustration, typography, publication and print design. In my final project, The American Dream, I explore social issues related to immigration in order to create a message of solidarity, especially during these uncertain times.

I was motivated to create this project being an immigrant myself and coming from an immigrant family. My focus with The American Dream is that I show illustrations and messages that show issues that immigrants face, such as the situations immigrants find themselves in with the ongoing Covid-19 crisis in the United States. I also want to show that immigrants contribute to the culture of the United States. I want to break the stereotype that immigrants are one single race. An immigrant is not defined by a single race, but come from many walks of life with their own stories to tell.

Growing up, I always heard or read negative views and perspectives on immigrants. Reading stories of immigrant workers during the crisis is inspiring because they still give back and are resilient in the face of adversity. In The American Dream, I want to create a sense of unity among all people and create positive depictions of immigrants and their families, who are essential to this country. Migrants leave their homes out of desperation to seek a better life and work hard to contribute in many ways to the culture and economy of the United States. The American Dream is a statement of solidarity for and celebration of the lives that migrants have built for themselves. In the end, I believe american dreams can transform immigrants into Americans. The american dream is that every immigrant has the potential to make America great again.