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 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 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 Washington State Arts Commission, 2017.

Untitled (Sandblasted Walkway), 1994

Cecilia Alvarez
American (born 1950)

Location: Seattle Central College, Seattle

About the Artwork

This artwork by artist Cecilia Alvarez is comprised of ten patterns sandblasted in concrete. It is part of her installation of art and architectural elements in the Student Activities Center at Seattle Central College. The patterns are located along the outdoor walkway by the college bookstore. Alvarez's imagery draws from motifs found in the following cultures: East Indian, Nez Perce (Northwest Native American), Samoan, Italian, Norwegian, German, Filipino, Nigerian, and Egyptian. She 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.”

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.