Teresa Magaña Builds Space For Culturally Resonant Expression

Teresa Magaña is a Chicago-based self-taught artist and co-founder of Pilsen Arts & Community House. Though Magaña became an artist later in life, she feels inspired by her profound connection to her roots and Chicana heritage. Magaña grew up in Pilsen, and prides herself on the culture that has accepted and celebrated her. In Mexican culture, the life and death cycle is heavily accepted and celebrated; Magaña feels inspired by these ideals and Dia de los Muertos themes and motifs to create her style of art. Line work, swirls, curls and pinstripes evolved into her style, reminiscent of Chicago’s sign painters. At Pilsen Arts & Community House, Magaña creates a space for local artists, offering exhibitions, classes and workshops. The space is intended for the Chicago community (and beyond) to engage in creative expression and represent the true voice of the neighborhood. Through Magaña’s work, she hopes to uplift others and bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary art. This is what her Chicago sounds like.

This segment of “This Is What Chicago Sounds Like” was produced by Ari Meija. To learn more about Teresa Magana, visit her website www.teresamagana.com or follow her on Instagram @TeresaMagArt