As part of its initiative to advance the visibility, understanding and appreciation of Chicano and Latino art, AltaMed presents Bridges in Time of Walls: Chicano/Mexican Art from Los Angeles to Mexico, a multigenerational selection of works by Chicano and Latino artists from Southern California, all of whom are of Mexican heritage. The exhibition highlights artists’ cultural connection between their Mexican heritage and American experience, and how their art connects the two countries, even in difficult political times on either side of the border. By expanding the lens of how Chicano and Latino art is viewed beyond its strict geographical home, the exhibition illustrates these artists’ inexorable ties to Mexico and the United States.

AltaMed Health Services serves Latino, multi-ethnic and underserved communities in Southern California, and as part of its holistic approach to health care, exhibits its art collection throughout all its clinics and service sites, whose subjects reflect the diverse communities it serves. This exhibition is a reaction to the political discourse currently occurring between two neighboring countries. Art has always been a reflection of the issues surrounding society, specifically the communities. While national headlines are dominated by the differences between these two countries, the intention of this exhibition is to remind those in Mexico and in Los Angeles of commonalities and shared experiences; to break down the walls, both physical and mental, that separate us. Bridges in Time of Walls highlights many of the connections that our community has with Mexico, despite the differences portrayed in media.