Screenprint Designs → Printed Roots
an exploration of Chicano screenprint posters of the 1970s.
Printed Roots explores Chicano Posters during the Chicano Movements of the 1970s, Incorporating visual elements and themes of Chicano identity, symbolism, and overall what it means to be a first-generation Mexican-American. The symbolic image I use is the cactus or nopal. It is featured on Mexico's flag, a staple food, and used in slang.
The word "Nopal" comes from the Natual word nohpalli. It is a symbolic and fundamental symbol in Mexico. Referred to as the life-giving plant or rebirth because it seems to live forever - fallen leaves form a new plant. The nopal is featured in the Mexican flag - symbolizing the defeated hearts of the defeated warriors. Its prickly outer skin needs caution for harvesting and preparation - but inside is full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Yet the word Nopal is used as a derogatory term. “Cara de nopal" which translate to "prickly pear cactus-faced" is used in Mexican culture to describe someone who has obvious indigenous features.