La Cigarra (158) — Alena Mendoza

Artist

Alena Mendoza (18)

Materials Used

Acrylic paint

Your website or social media

@_alena_mendoza_

Describe your bug and its beauty

What you are looking at is a Mexican inspired piece. The top half I decided to make it seem like it's an alebrije (a Mexican spirit guide animal) and on the wings I painted different types of talavera tile designs.

How long do you think you took decorating your bug?

12 hours

Tell us your Story

The cicadas emerging this year last visited us 17 years ago. What kind of change have you seen in your city, yourself, or someone you know over the last 17 years?

When the cicadas last came out 17 years ago, my mom would have me listen to the song 'La Cigarra' sang by Linda Ronstadt. Although I was 1 year old, this song would truly be listened to as I grew up. Growing up, I always looked forward to seeing the yearly cicadas. I would always grab the exoskeletons that i would find on the trees and would put them on the shirt I was wearing or wore them as rings just for fun! Cicadas are truly a part of my life! And I hope they continue to be a part of my life!

Location

Pryce Park, 16th St & Wesley Ave, Berwyn, IL 60402 — Map

Would you like to include an identifiers to represent your community?

Latino

BPAI