a.j. robles
As a first-generation American, translation and language have been permanently embedded in my life. Having parents who are immigrants from Nicaragua has made me realize that there are lived experiences and traditions that have been lost in translation. My work explores the concept of communication and community through craft and graphic design, with the intention of fostering dialogue.
In my work, I explore the connections between communication and craft through the use of weaving techniques and lettering. I use materials like fiber, paper, and beads to explore the narrative behind colloquial phrases and their etymology. Some questions that guide my process are: What does it mean to belong everywhere and nowhere at the same time? How can I translate complex narratives into something others can understand? How much gravity does my perspective hold? These materials, traditions, and processes have served as a way to hear and share other people's experiences, but also establish where I stand as a graphic designer and how I can contribute to communities. As a result, much of my work has evolved into creating artifacts that explore the disparity between a domestic object and a radical message. It provides a compelling space to explore through the lens of craft and the conversations they produce.