Multiple Belongings

Abstract

This thesis research explores the concepts of “belonging” and “identity” from the perspectives of art history and the creative clay process. It investigates the meanings of migration, diaspora, and transnationality as represented in the visual arts, incorporating examples of ceramic artworks by various Puerto Rican artists to illustrate how they have worked with these concepts. These artists emphasize the role of culture and heritage in shaping notions of belonging and identity, demonstrating that belonging to multiple places is possible.

The artworks created for this thesis are made of clay. In this thesis, the process of modeling and firing clay serves as a metaphor for the transformations individuals undergo as they adapt to new environments. Just like clay is shaped by the artist’s touch and the kiln’s heat, belonging and identity are formed through life experiences.

The exhibition "Multiple Belongings" showcases architectural sculptures that present the artist’s culture and heritage as a way to define belonging and shape identity. These sculptures serve as metaphors for place and vessels that hold memories of the past, symbolizing resilience and reclamation.

This thesis explores the meaning of the words belonging, identity, migration, diaspora, culture, heritage, transnationality, resilience, and reclamation.