Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jessica Lagunas . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Jessica , thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

Creating the Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera Mural for the Portland Art Museum in 2022 was a profound and transformative experience. The journey began with an email invitation that carried the weight of grace, marking the moment I, as the Latino Artist Collective IDEAL PDX representative, stepped into the Portland Art Museum for the first time.

For a decade, my close friend and collaborator, William Hernandez, and I had tirelessly sought opportunities to showcase and uplift the work of numerous artists associated with our collective. We traversed through universities and local organizations. After years of dedicated effort, receiving the call from the Portland Art Museum felt like the harmonious melody of a golden door swinging open.

This invitation was not just an opportunity but a symphony of possibilities. It signaled a chance to expand as a collective and marked a pivotal moment in my journey as a creative director and leader. Most significantly, my role in guiding IDEAL PDX took on new meaning.
Frida and Diego’s mural project became a metaphorical golden key, unlocking doors to growth, creativity, and a deeper understanding of IDEAL PDX as a collective. It was a beautiful realization that echoed in every stroke of paint on that mural – a masterpiece that became a testament to the transformative power of art and opportunity.

My experience orchestrating the creation of the Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera Mural at the Portland Art Museum was an adventure filled with obstacles and memorable moments. There were instances where we had to make difficult decisions. Still, we were always fortunate to have our dear friends’ unwavering support and encouragement, which motivated us to keep moving forward.

As we proceeded with our creative process, we faced challenges lurking in the background. Making decisions became a heavy burden, as we felt like we were walking on a tightrope between maintaining our artistic integrity and meeting the practical requirements of project management. Every brushstroke and color choice became a testament to the hard work, determination, and persistence necessary to overcome these obstacles.

While creating the mural, one of the most exciting moments was when the museum community and the broader public engaged in a dialogue with the art. Museum visitors and fellow artists joined in conversations, shared stories, and connected with the unfolding masterpiece. The mural became a living testament to the power of artistic expression in fostering community engagement and dialogue.

The grand unveiling of the Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera Mural at the Portland Art Museum ” Frida and Diego are here” was a moment of triumph and celebration. The culmination of years of dedication, the mural stood tall, a kaleidoscope of colors narrating the collective journey of IDEAL PDX. I shared my tears with many visitors; I enjoyed the visit of each student and artist who came to talk to us. The museum’s walls echoed with the stories of the past, the vibrancy of the present, and the promise of a future where diverse artistic voices would continue to thrive.

Jessica , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

IDEAL PDX is dedicated to fostering the growth and well-being of individual artists in the community. Our mission goes beyond creating art; we believe that our collective strength is closely linked to our ability to listen to and support the diverse needs of each artist.
IDEAL PDX is a unique organization made up of individuals who have a strong passion for art, while also managing full-time jobs. Although we have different backgrounds and experiences, our shared enthusiasm for art brings us together as a community of professionals. We are more than just a group of artists; we are a collective of passionate individuals who bring a wealth of experience from various walks of life.

My goal is to continue serving our mission and keep this collective of artists engaged. Many have come and a few have gone to look for their own paths and ways to evolve in the community, but each one has left behind memorable experiences.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Supporting IDEAL PDX artists/art means embracing the idea that art is powerful for happiness and connection. It’s about appreciating the nuanced beauty that emerges when many individual voices form a harmonious symphony. In choosing to support us, you are not just endorsing art; you are becoming a part of a movement that values the unconventional, celebrates diversity, and believes in the transformative power of collective creativity.

IDEAL PDX is more than an organization; it is a family of artists, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of our shared passion for creativity and collaboration.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

As an artist and a creative director within IDEAL PDX, I’ve discovered that the true essence of creativity lies in the willingness to learn from those around me. It’s about immersing myself in the diverse talent that defines our collective. This openness to learning from others has proven to be a growth in my creativity. Every artist I surround myself with becomes a mentor, a guide, and a source of inspiration. Their varied approaches, challenges, and triumphs become invaluable lessons, shaping my artistic identity in ways I couldn’t have achieved in a self-journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: idealpdx.com
• Instagram: @ideal.pdx
• Facebook: idealpdx

Image Credits
M.Martinez Photo – has the signature on pictures Josue Rivas – Josue_photo – 3 on studie black and white photo.