SGV residents invited to participate in local artist’s portrait series documenting political discourse

Photography artist Alejandra Cordero has launched a portrait series, “What’s Your Sign?,” visually documenting political discourse within the San Gabriel Valley community. The series aims to capture the diverse perspectives, emotions, and stories of individuals engaged in political dialogue, providing a safe space and a platform for voices often unheard.

Cordero is inviting her community to be part of this project and encourages interested participants to get creative and design a sign expressing a political stand. Participants will then have a portrait taken with their sign. The portrait photo series is taking place at the 1111 ArtCenter building off South Arroyo Parkway right outside the Peter and Merle Mullin Gallery every Saturday through July 27 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cordero emphasizes that the portrait series is free and open to anyone who wishes to participate and that it will be a safe space where all signs are welcome.

“I wanted to create a project that not only documents the current political climate but also fosters understanding and empathy among people with different viewpoints and invites the community to cope with it artistically as I do,” shared Cordero, a student ArtCenter College of Design.

“What’s Your Sign?” will be a collection of portraits and accompanying narratives through signage that look into the personal and collective experiences of community members as they navigate the complexities of political engagement. Through her lens, Cordero will be capturing the essence of each subject’s sign highlighting their message, hope, fear, and aspirations for the future.

Participants may park in the ArtCenter parking lot off Raymond Avenue.