Pablo Helm-Hernandez
Location: College of DuPage
Hometown: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Sponsored by: (NEO) Muralismo de Mexico
My name is Pablo Helm-Hernandez. I’m an artist of many mediums - I really enjoy painting, illustrating and rug making. I grew up in the twin cities and I’ve always been inspired by the sheer amount of creativity that exists within the human soul. Our planet is filled with so many amazing examples of creativity, and I love seeing what we come up with. I want to explore my reality and turn my artistic visions into physical interpretations, and I love to help others do the same. I have been drawing and painting my whole life. Recently I have been painting very large scale (murals) and very small scale. I have also been working in sculptural fabrication, constructing film sets and props. But my favorite will always be art where community engagement is involved. I also love my Mexican heritage and am constantly inspired by Mexico’s vibrant cultures. My dream is to make murals and other forms of public art because it is a great way to combine all my passions.
Title of Work: Xi Wey
Description of work: Inspired by the ancient Cascajal Block, the earliest evidence of writing in the Americas, this sculpture intertwines history with contemporary aesthetics. Glyphs depicting corn, bromeliad, flower, and pineapple reflect the Olmec's profound influence on the cultivation of these vital plants. In a fusion of retro-modern and ancient styles, simplicity marries significance. At the top of the head, a jaguar emerges, a string and stealthy and stealthy beast revered by many Mexican cultures and civilizations. The design on the face is actually a copy of a Olmec mask found on display at the Minneapolis institute of art, depicting the transformation a person turning into a jaguar though intricate lines mimicking its teeth and spots. The The monarch and hummingbird symbolize the enduring journey of immigration, while a section of the Mississippi River flows through the back of the head, with red dots to show the locations of the twin cities. The river twists into the shape of barbed wire to represent the struggles of crossing the border. The color palate used is in references to the distinct seasons in Minnesota; blue and white for winter, brown and yellow for spring, green for summer, and red and orange for fall. I hope that this design inspires more people to learn and connect with the ancient Olmec civilization. Thank you!
Click below to join our email list and receive updates directly in your inbox!
Timeline of Events
Artists in Mexico have begun painting and 15 national artists will arrive in May of 2024 to paint 15 heads here in DuPage County on-site at the McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage. This exciting international exhibition has already begun and will be completed in June of 2024.
Get Involved!
Artists can only participate by way of a sponsorship. Local, state and private institutions in the US or Mexico are invited to join in this unique opportunity to showcase modern-day murals reflecting Mexican American culture and regional interpretational art. We are confident that by participating in this project as a sponsor, you will be fulfilling the mission of your organization. Sponsors will be a part of a once in a lifetime opportunity to collaborate with multiple entities and organizations around North America, which can bring more awareness and support to your organization’s efforts. We are working together for one cultural, artistic, and educational purpose that will bring so many people together in a very unique way. Additionally, you will be supporting one of your local artists taking part in a major career opportunity that promises unique experiences, enhancement of their artistic skills, and a chance to display their talents on a monumental canvas. What an amazing opportunity!