Artwork copyright Cecilia Alvarez. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

Artwork copyright Cecilia Alvarez. Photo courtesy of the artist (detail).

Artwork copyright Cecilia Alvarez. Photo courtesy of Seattle Central College.

Artwork copyright Cecilia Alvarez. Photo courtesy of Seattle Central College.

Artwork copyright Cecilia Alvarez. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

Artwork copyright Cecilia Alvarez. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

Artwork copyright Cecilia Alvarez. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

Artwork copyright Cecilia Alvarez. Photo courtesy of Seattle Central College.

Artwork copyright Cecilia Alvarez. Photo courtesy of Seattle Central College.

Artwork copyright Cecilia Alvarez. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

Untitled (Etched Windows), 1994

Cecilia Alvarez
American (born 1950)

Location: Seattle Central College, Seattle

About the Artwork

This artwork by artist Cecilia Alvarez is comprised of six etched glass windows. It is part of her installation of art and architectural elements in the Student Activities Center at Seattle Central College. The patterns of each window combine motifs from two different cultures. Alvarez notes, “The intent of these patterns was not only to pay homage to the cultures represented, but to attempt to infuse the structures and the site with a sense of belonging and intimacy.” The southwest curved window features Islamic and Mexican designs. The southwest bay windows feature African and Salish designs. The northwest curved windows feature Celtic and Chinese designs. The east bay windows feature Japanese and Salish designs. The southeast curved windows feature Mexican and African designs.

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Seattle Central College.

About the Artist

Cecilia Alvarez is a Seattle-based, Chicana artist. Her public art, murals, and installations take a direct, feminist look at issues of entitlement and equity in our society. Her work questions our social norms and sparks conversation about poverty, diversity, and social justice.
Alvarez has lived and worked in Washington state since 1975. She was born in California of Mexican and Cuban descent. Her work reflects the influences and perspectives of her heritage. Alvarez exhibits and lectures nationally. Her artworks are in the collections of Seattle Art Museum and The Mexican Museum in San Francisco, California.