<![CDATA[Elizabeth Jiménez Montelongo

<![CDATA[Elizabeth Jiménez Montelongo - Blog]]>Thu, 18 Apr 2024 06:17:50 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Instagram Feed - @elizabethjimenezmontelongo]]>Wed, 17 Nov 2021 03:33:57 GMThttps://ejmontelongo.com/blog/instagram-feed

]]><![CDATA[Chicana Poetry Reading and Poetry Circle, presented by MACLA maclaarte.org, San José, CA - via Zoom - May 2021 - by Elizabeth Jiménez Montelongo]]>Mon, 10 May 2021 18:00:57 GMThttps://ejmontelongo.com/blog/chicana-poetry-reading-and-poetry-circle-presented-by-macla-maclaarteorg-san-jose-ca-via-zoom-may-2021-by-elizabeth-jimenez-montelongo

PictureChicana Poetry Reading and Poetry Circle, presented by MACLA maclaarte.org, San José, CA - via Zoom - May 2021 - by Elizabeth Jiménez Montelongo

Tuesday, May 11th at 6:00pm Pacific
Chicana Poetry Reading and Poetry Circle
by Elizabeth Jiménez Montelongo
Presented by MACLA

Register: http://bit.ly/chicanapoetry

Elizabeth Jiménez Montelongo is a poet, visual artist, educator, and Creative Ambassador for the San José Office of Cultural Affairs. She will be reading her own Chicana poetry on themes of identity, transformation, and empowerment. The poems are written from her perspective as an Indigenous Mexican Chicana woman. Some poems are bilingual, some will be shared in Spanish, and some will be shared in both Spanish and English.

In between themed sets of poetry, participants will encouraged to write
(prompts and sample verses provided), and will also be invited to share poetry written during the event. Multilingual expression is encouraged! Safe-space, no recording, everybody welcome. Samples of Chicana poetry by Elizabeth Jiménez Montelongo can be found at http://www.ejmontelongo.com/poetry

]]><![CDATA[Rising Above Memories, Beliefs, and Illusions]]>Wed, 20 Mar 2019 18:59:10 GMThttps://ejmontelongo.com/blog/rising-above-memories-beliefs-and-illusionsThe memories as processed via the subconscious are not always actual objective memories of the events that occurred, but are memories colored and distorted by our beliefs, desires, and illusions. We access these memories by undertaking the journey within ourselves, where we can recreate our memories based on positive beliefs, guided desires, and truth. Our memories impact our everyday actions and decisions and therefore, determine our future.

In The Return, the concept of ancestral memory is addressed. Both traumas suffered by ancestors as well as their success can paint our stories and thereby our memories and future. These memories can be planted through family stories as well as differing perspectives of history.

The piece Conflicted identifies a space of inner conflict, where memories of pain and troubles must be released so that we will not be bound to them.

In the painting Rise, memory of the truth written in our hearts, as reminded by our Creator, shine light on our perspective. This is possible through love, connection, and awareness.

Rising illustrates our consciousness rising from murkiness of ingrained beliefs, propaganda, and tradition. We rise to strength, empowerment, truth, and light.

Conscious Creation is the space where we recreate ourselves, emerging as new beings, with new possibilities for the future via identifying illusions and awareness of truth.

]]><![CDATA[Standing in Victory]]>Wed, 12 Oct 2016 07:00:00 GMThttps://ejmontelongo.com/blog/standing-in-victoryINSPIRATION
My new painting Standing in Victory addresses the oil pipeline under construction spanning five states, including South Dakota. It is known as the Dakota Access Pipeline, Bakken Pipeline, or "black snake" depending on who you ask.

The painting Standing in Victory shows the Standing Rock Sioux nation, as well as their American Indian and other allies (including children) coming together as one unified community to oppose a threat to the environment, clean water, and justice. Their collective efforts summon a maize plant, the rain, and even a rainbow in the night. When this piece is sold, I will send half the sale price received to the Standing Rock Sioux. To make a donation directly, please go to: www.standingrock.org

MEANING
This paintings shows a variety of people coming together, united against a threat to sacred burial grounds, clean drinking water, and the general environment. The people represented include members of the Standing Rock Sioux nation: youth, children, women and men. There are also supporters of all ages, genders, and colors represented, showing support. The ancestors are also represented and like all the figures, share their voice, thoughts, and energy that has contributed to a victory. The victory refers not to a permanent end to the threat, as there will continue to be threats, but a victory of standing together in strong unity among those present at the construction site and those supporting from around the world.

ICONOGRAPHY
The figures in Standing in Victory stand in unity and from their voices arises the spirit of a blue maize plant marked with the skeletal strength of the ancestors. It glows in front of a full harvest moon. Above, the clouds release the rain, watering the blossoming flowers below. The flowers are white, representing bones of the ancestors because this is the blossoming of their prophesy. The butterfly and hummingbird accompany the ancestors as they are the messengers between worlds. The rainbow marks the suffering and hope that arises from it, beginning with a challenge and ending in a higher state of consciousness for all affected. Glyphs used in original or modified form are from the ancient book known as the Codex Borgia.

CONNECTION TO PREVIOUS WORK
The blue maiz/corn plant previously appeared in my painting: Planting the Future and is modified from an image in the book known as Codex Borgia.

HOW TO SUPPORT MY ART
To purchase this painting, please e-mail me or PayPal Me.
View the Price List here.
Purchase an Art Collector Subscription (for yourself or as a gift.)
Sign up for my e-mail list:

]]><![CDATA[Art in Progress #nodapl]]>Thu, 06 Oct 2016 23:51:07 GMThttps://ejmontelongo.com/blog/artinprogressnodaplI am working on a new painting addressing the oil pipeline under construction spanning five states, including South Dakota. It is known as the Dakota Access Pipeline, Bakken Pipeline, or "black snake" depending on who you ask. Over a hundred American Indian nations have come together to oppose the construction of the pipeline because when it eventually leaks, it will contaminate the main source of their water supply, the Missouri River, and of course the drinking water of many other people, creatures, and beings. It is a potential environmental disaster, so many environmental groups have also come together to oppose the construction.

I oppose the building of this oil pipeline and any future oil pipelines, especially if they severely threaten water sources and destroy sacred burial lands in the process. Below are some progress photos on the artwork, which I intend to sell and send 50% to The Standing Rock Sioux nation to support their efforts to halt the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.

Please spread the word about the dangers the Dakota Access Pipeline poses to the environment. To learn more, please search the internet for news on the Dakota Access Pipeline. Social media tags include: #nodapl #rezpectourwater #waterislife #waterissacred #standwithstandingrock

I will post soon, once I have the final images of the painting! Thanks for reading!

]]><![CDATA[Where Borders End]]>Thu, 25 Aug 2016 05:32:02 GMThttps://ejmontelongo.com/blog/where-borders-endThe painting Where Borders End peels away the illusions that our outer appearances create, revealing our similarity. Despite our different backgrounds, gender, socioeconomic status, heritage, color, language, and lived experience, we all have an inner-being, which we may call “soul,” “spirit,” or “essence.” It is that essence of ourselves which is most relevant once we see beyond the illusions of superiority, judgement, and borders.

MEANING
Where Borders End shows the essence of a person, traveling in a cycle parallel to the conscious experience of the person. The stations of the cycle are: Transformation, Development, Force of Will, and Creation.
1) Transformation through introspection in the “underworld” by exploring the subconscious root of thoughts and opinions. Physically: resting or replenishing the body.
2) Development through communication and life experience. Physically: the body gains strength.
3) Force of Will by taking action and pushing the limits of what seems possible. Physically: acting on decisions.
4) Creation by shedding skins of the past (healing) and breaking old patterns to create new possibilities. Physically: creating anything, teaching, or practicing arts.

Where Borders End, acrylic, ink, and glitter on wood, 24" diameter

INSPIRATION
The concepts for this piece were inspired by Mexika (Aztec) teachings which have been passed on mainly through oral tradition. This is my interpretation of what I have learned about the symbolic meaning of the four directions and all that is associated with them. The blue color of the figure serves to detach it from typical human skin colors. Also, turquoise blue in Mexika culture, is the color of harmony and truth.

ICONOGRAPHY
The image of the spirit of life in the center of the piece, as well as the owl representing the ancestors, are both borrowed from the amoxtli (codex) “Fejérváry-Mayer”. The steps of the teokalli on the left and right as well as the crocodile heads are modified from images in the amoxtli “Borgia.” The colors of the outer edge of the painting are associated with the four cardinal directions when the painting is positioned over the viewers head so the black edge faces north.

CONNECTION TO PREVIOUS PAINTINGS
The figure of the blue “essence” is based on the figures in my painting Reclaiming Autonomy. In my piece Children Manifesting Destiny, the children are a similar blue and the blue tree makes its first appearance. See more work from the series Dolor, muerte y mariposas.

HOW TO SUPPORT MY ART
To purchase this painting, please e-mail me or PayPal Me.
View the Price List here.
Purchase an Art Collector Subscription (for yourself or as a gift.)

]]><![CDATA[New Painting: Moving On]]>Sun, 20 Mar 2016 02:40:07 GMThttps://ejmontelongo.com/blog/new-painting-moving-on

Moving On, 34x34", acrylic, ink, and mixed media on wood

The recurring figures in my work, which appear in this painting, are based on my version of the yellow “Border Crossing” sign (also known as an “Immigration Crossing” sign.) The figures, often holding hands in unity, do not run in fear, but move with dignity and determination. My decision to use these figures is due to my close identification with immigrants as I am a descendant of immigrants from Mexico and belong to a community that consists mainly of first, second, and third generation immigrants. The presence of these figures in my artwork serves to present the story of the empowered immigrants and their descendants, and beyond that, to promote unity between humans.

In the painting, Moving On, a woman leads 13 children over a rainbow. The rainbow serves as a bridge crossing over a prison of barbed wire referencing border and immigration issues. The woman, representing the adult leaders of the community, is showing these children another way to transcend the limits and boundaries that may be imposed on them. Beneath the owl, representing the ancestors, these children are on their way to becoming the leaders of the future.

The group heads toward a teokalli (place of energy) which they will climb upward. Under the rainbow is a cactus, as found on the Codex Mendoza, and barbed wire. These details are an allusion to immigration across the U.S. border. The piece is about "moving on" beyond mental illusions, social constructions, to transcend physical existence. This can be considered a metaphorical death, a transformation of the self: a liberation of the mind and spirit.

Certain details can be enjoyed best in person. Please visit again to find out when I will exhibit this painting. Also, sign up for Email Updates in the bar to the right to find out about my new artwork, upcoming exhibitions, and more!

]]><![CDATA[Signed, Framed Prints of Artwork by Elizabeth Jiménez Montelongo]]>Mon, 14 Dec 2015 05:03:58 GMThttps://ejmontelongo.com/blog/signed-framed-prints-of-artwork-by-elizabeth-jimnez-montelongoSigned, Framed Prints of Artwork by Elizabeth Jiménez Montelongo are now available! Print sizes start at 8.5x11" and cost $45 for an Archival Signed Giclée Print or $20 for a glossy Framed Signed Print. Shipping is FREE within U.S. and tax is included if you purchase directly on www.ejmontelongo.com. Sample below:

See available images available for prints by series:
The Euphoric Dance of the Unconquered Mind

Dolor Muerte y Mariposas

Footless Dancers

Also available: Archival, Signed Giclée Prints are $45, tax included!

Order your Signed Print today! See the three series here first or start at: http://www.ejmontelongo.com/prints-edum.html

]]><![CDATA[We Are You Project at Kean University, Human Rights Institute Gallery]]>Tue, 06 Oct 2015 03:08:23 GMThttps://ejmontelongo.com/blog/we-are-you-project-at-kean-university-human-rights-institute-galleryMy piece The Way is currently included in an exhibition at Kean University, Human Rights Institute Gallery. It is an honor to exhibit once again with this group of talented, mostly East Coast artists. Please view the links below for more information.

SEPTEMBER 2015 — JANUARY 2016
The We Are You Project combines visual art, poetry, music, performance art and film to explore the lived experiences of Latinos within and beyond the United States. Featured artists uniquely depict current social, cultural, political and economic conditions to increase awareness and inspire action to improve the human experience.

SAVE THE DATES:
Opening Reception — Tuesday, September 15
Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff, 3:30 p.m.
Sponsored by the Office of Student Government
Reception with the Artists, 6 p.m.
Poetry Reading — Thursday, October 8
Guest Lecture & Panel Discussion — Wednesday, October 28
Film Screening — Monday, November 9

VISUAL ARTISTS:
José Acosta • Efren Ave • Nelson Álvarez ‘08 • Ray Arcadio • Willie Báez • Josephine Barreiro • Hugo X. Bastidas • Monica S. Camin • Priscila De Carvalho • Jacqui Casale • Gerardo Castro • Pablo Caviedes • Carlos Chavez • Williams Coronado • Olga Cruz • Maritza Davila • Ricardo Fonseca • Roberto Márquez • Elizabeth Jiménez Montelongo • Hugo Morales • Lisette Morel • Gabriel Navar • Raphael Montañez Ortíz • Jimmy Peña • Joe Peña • Duda Penteado • Alvin E. Quiñones • Mel Ramos • Rolando Reyna • Ana Laura Rivera • José Rodeiro • Marta Sánchez • Patricio Moreno Toro • Sergio Villamizar • Raúl Villarreal

We Are You Project http://www.weareyouproject.org
Kean University: Human Rights Institute Gallery http://www.kean.edu/academics/human-rights-institute/events
Ragazine.cc article: http://ragazine.cc/2015/09/we-are-you-project-kean-univ/
Kean Exchange: http://www.keanxchange.com/media/pr/we-are-you-project-human-rights-institute-kean-university-celebrates-national-hispanic-heri

The Way. 36x12" mixed media on wood (Photo Credit: José Acosta)

See more work at:
http://www.ejmontelongo.com

My online shop:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/EJMArtwork

]]><![CDATA[Painting sold at Triton Museum Auction]]>Sat, 09 May 2015 00:25:42 GMThttps://ejmontelongo.com/blog/painting-sold-at-triton-museum-auctionMy painting below was sold at auction at the Triton Museum of Art in Santa Clara, CA at the museum's 50th Anniversary Gala on Saturday, May 2, 2015.

The piece sold is called Reflection, an acrylic and ink painting on wood that shimmers in the light. 17x17" tall, it is the first in a new style that combines the styles of my previous series: The Euphoric Dance of the Unconquered Mind and Dolor, Muerte, y Mariposas.

100% of the proceeds went to support the museum exhibitions, classes, and events including free events.

-Elizabeth Jiménez Montelongo

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