Since 2021
Artist Statement
The traditional practices of mask making, paper mache, and dress all inspire my work, as well as my queer identity. As a contemporary artist born on the West Coast of the United States, many of my ideas are tied to family, music, and cultural identity. I am motivated by the growing population of fellow Mexican-American individuals. I place myself between the realms of contemporary art and the traditions of Mexican culture.
As a visual artist, I’ve grown a deeper understanding of my Mexican American identity. Many times as a Latino I’ve felt displaced due to religion and language. It is my mission to explore these topics and create safe spaces for others who have felt excluded from their communities.
ARTIST BIO
BrassTuna (b. 2000) is a Phoenix, Arizona-based visual artist creating works centered around Chicano and Latin culture and how they overlap in the 21st century. Incorporating mask making, sculpting, sewing, and painting, BrassTuna immerses their photography style around the ideas of community building.
Born in Phoenix, Arizona, BrassTuna is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and continues to further their practice in photography by curating different concepts and techniques into their work.
In 2023, BrassTuna started their physical exhibition debut with 'Jardin De Flores' at the ALAC in downtown Phoenix. Since then, BrassTuna has achieved a significant milestone with their first solo exhibition, held in November 2025 at the Eric Fischl Gallery in downtown Phoenix. This exhibition was made possible through the generous funding of the Artists to Work Grant, marking a pivotal moment in BrassTuna's artistic career.