Ximena Garrido-Lecca: Spectrums of Reference

Ximena Garrido-Lecca: Spectrums of Reference

September 21, 2019 – March 15, 2020

Ximena Garrido-Lecca explores the impact of natural resource exploitation on different social groups and cultures, with a particular interest in how industrialization and urbanization have historically affected the relationship between nature and culture. For this exhibition, the artist investigates contemporary uses of silicon, the second most abundant element on Earth, after oxygen. Silicon is most commonly used today in the production of computer chips and solar panel technology. In this new body of work, Garrido-Lecca repurposes silicon scraps used to make computer chips and fragments from discarded solar panels into various forms, including a stained-glass window and vessels inspired by Pre-Columbian ceremonial ceramics. By connecting ancient ritualistic cultural practices, natural resources, science, and technology, Garrido-Lecca questions belief systems and the capitalist drive to produce new technologies.

This exhibition was organized by the Orange County Museum of Art and curated by Cassandra Coblentz.

Ximena Garrido-Lecca, Fields of Polarity (installation view), 2019; broken ceramics, LED light tubes, copper tape, solar panel, 12-volt battery, solder; dimensions variable; Courtesy of the artist. Photo: Juliana Paciulli.
Ximena Garrido-Lecca, Umbrales (installation view), 2019; recycled silicon wafers, copper tape, solder, aluminum frame; dimensions variable; Courtesy of the artist. Photo: Juliana Paciulli.