Meet Laura Hernandez | Educator & Chicana Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Laura Hernandez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Laura, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Over time, my work-life balance has evolved as I’ve embraced my roles as a single mother, teacher, and Chicana artist, At first I focused intensely on being a good mother and on my teaching profession, but as I’ve grown, I’ve learned the importance of nurturing my creativity and passion through travel. Exploring new places on my own or with my kids has become an integral part of staying inspired and finding equilibrium in my life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My Chicano art sets me apart from others as it is a reflection of my identity and heritage. As a first-generation Chicana, I take great pride in my art and what it represents. What excites me the most is the opportunity to showcase my culture and share it with the world through my creations.

I hand paint on recycled tin cans, glass bottles, and clay pots. Each piece I work on is a canvas for me to express my love for the things that shaped my upbringing. My art features iconic figures like Frida Kahlo and Selena, paying homage to their influence on my identity. Additionally, I incorporate Mexican Lucha Libre, Loteria cards, and calaveras made from recycled bottles for Dia de los Muertos, celebrating the rich traditions that have been passed down to me.

Apart from this, I also create handmade and hand-painted nichos out of match boxes. I hand paint flowers, patterns and designs on these nichos. I also hand paint on wooden crosses. The colors, the flowers, and designs I paint define my work. My artistic process is meticulous, and I dedicate time and attention to each piece, ensuring that no two are alike. This allows my work to have a sense of uniqueness and authenticity.

Ultimately, my art is more than just a visual representation; it is a reflection of my story and the stories of those who came before me. Through my work, I strive to share my culture, heritage, and the beauty of Chicano art with the world. I hope that my pieces not only inspire but also promote an understanding and appreciation for the rich tapestry of Mexican-American culture and its significance in shaping the world we live in today.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Places to eat, drink and visit for an amazing time in Los Angeles with my best friend:

Day 1:
Morning: Start with a breakfast at Grand Central Market, where my friend can explore a diverse range of food options.
Afternoon: I’d take my friend for historic walk of downtown Los Angeles to learn about the city’s rich heritage and architecture. Places would include the Last Bookstore, The Bradbury Building, and Angel’s Flight
Evening: I’d then take my friend on a ghost tour of La Placita Olvera to hear fascinating tales of the area’s haunted past.

Day 2:
Morning: Have a scrumptious breakfast at Milpa Grille Boyle, known for its delectable food and great coffee.
Afternoon: Head to Mariachi Plaza to experience the vibrant and lively atmosphere and visit Espacio 1839 for unique shopping, where you can find local crafts and artworks.
Evening: Catch a great performance at CASA 0101 and afterwards stop at Districto Catorce for a night of delicious food and drinks.

Day 3:

Morning: Explore Pio Pico, a historic site and the former governor’s mansion, to learn about California’s early history.
Afternoon: Walk over to have a great lunch in nearby historic deli, Philippe The Original or have lunch at one of La Placitas restaurants, like La Luz Del Dia or El Paso Inn.
Evening: Relax at La Plaza Cultural, an open-air space with cultural events and performances.

Day 4:

Morning: Visit LA’s Union station and Los Angles City Hall building. At the City Hall building you can to learn about its architecture and go up the 27th-floor observation floor.
Afternoon: Walk over to Chinatown and visit Chinatown Central Plaza and eat at Yang Chow Restaurant
Evening: Catch a beautiful sunset at El Pino, a spot that offers awe-inspiring views of Los Angeles.

Day 5:

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely morning and grab breakfast at the historic restaurant in downtown Los Angels, The Pantry
Afternoon: Spend the day exploring the Board, Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Evening: Head to Cinco Puntos to savor the great tasting, freshly made tortillas and chicharron.

Day 6

Morning: Visit and take a stroll at Elysian Park and Angel’s Point.
Afternoon: Relax and enjoy a Dodger game at Dodger stadium, but before that, discuss how the city of Los Angeles forcibly evicted the 300 families to build low-income public housing project, which never happened. Instead they built Dodger Stadium.
Evening: Visit the 6th Street Bridge for a stunning sunset view of the city and stop by for some delicious street tacos at Carnitas Los Dos Chigones.

Day 7:

Morning: On the last day, I’d take my friend to El Mercadito to see and buy traditional Mexican goods, religious relics, enjoy live mariachi music and authentic Mexican food.
Afternoon: Visit the Arts District and enjoy good beer
Evening: I’d end my friend’s trip with a farewell dinner while enjoying the beautiful night views of DTLA and having drinks at the Perch.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am filled with gratitude for the recognition of my art and passion. My studio has become my sanctuary. It’s where I express myself freely as a Chicana artist. It’s a place where I celebrate my culture and roots through vibrant colors and heartfelt creations. This artistic journey has been made possible not only by my dedication, but also by the unwavering support, love, and encouragement I received from my children, my parents, and my sisters.

I have faced many challenges in life, but I have overcome them with strength and determination. As a young, single mother of three, balancing the responsibilities of motherhood, and completing my college education was not easy. Having done so, is a source of immense fulfillment and pride. My children have been my greatest inspiration, pushing me to be the best version of myself.

I’ve been a teacher for LAUSD for the last 24 years. It’s been a privilege nurturing my students and challenging them to be successful and responsible. I try to instilling in them a love for art and their cultural roots. Every day I try to make a positive impact in the lives of my 5th grade students and the students I teach in the Migrant Education Program during the summers. I try to have them tap into their intellectual curiosity and artistic creativity so they may pursue their own passion.

I obtain my strength by my immigrant parents. They were great supporters, encouraging me to finish my education while pursuing my artist and creative side. My sisters have always stood by my side and cheering me on. They consistently reminded me of my potential in my moments of self-doubt.

The road to success was paved by love, support, and guidance from my family. It was because of this that I was able to overcome life’s obstacles. Today, I am humbled by their unwavering support. I would not be here without them. My life, especially my art, are a testament to the power of love and encouragement. I am grateful for the blessings in my life. I look forward to continuing my journey with passion and purpose.

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