my biography

My personal history has both colored my life and been an important influence on my creativity. I was born in Colombia, race in Venezuela, and the USA, and incorporated these nomadic experiences in my work. The meaning of my migration experiences and art has been woven around understanding What is like to be a NOMA and its ramifications. My work is Woven around social, political, and cultural critical events for the survival of the human race.   I received a B.F.A. from Rhode Island College in 1992. In between, I worked in the HIV/AIDS field developing the first HIV Spanish curriculum in Spanish for the Department of Public Health in Los Angeles County, California. In 2003 I received an MFA at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.   Two of the most important artistic influences had been my Mother and Father. Magdalena Tejeda a nurse, left her carrier to become a homemaker/ fashion designer two five models of her own creation. Alcibiades Lara a Textile Designer, who as a hobby built birdcages. Among other artists that influenced my work are:  Goya, Cornellia Park, Bill Viola, Paul MacCarthy, Vanessa Beecroft.  New and ongoing projects often emerge the most current is with the youth program of Latino Salud of Wilton Manors, a community agency that provides a safe environment to the youth. Gay human rights seem to be in jeopardy by the current government administration.  It is imperative for the youth to become aware, proactive, and loud voices for the preservation of their protection and rights.   

Javier A. Lara