Memory Bank

Pia Cisneros

Major: Fine Arts Practice, BFA

My work focuses on memory in the subject matter of sports. I grew up in a family of sport fanatics. Football, basketball, and baseball are daily conversations in my life. When working with this theme, I am reminded of the memories that come along with it, whether they are positive ones that I cherish or ones I wish were forgotten. However I want the work to also connect with the viewers and remind them of their own memories. Each piece allows the audience to connect with themselves and even listen to the image’s own story. 

Out of all the athletes, I chose Kobe Byrant and his daughter Gianna Byrant, and Colin Kaepernick. Even though I am a Bay Area native, my father raised me to be a Los Angeles Laker fan. Kobe Byrant was an inspirational and wonderful person on and off the court. When news about his death came out, my family was devastated. It was more heartbreaking when his daughter was taken with him. I am sure many have their own memories regarding Kobe and some can relate to the bond he had with his daughter. Moving on to ex San Francisco 49er Quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who is one of the most controversial players. Things took a turn when he sat during the national anthem, protesting against racial injustice and systematic oppression in the country. After that he began to take a knee, standing up for what he believes in. Unfortunately he still remains unsigned as a result of his activism. In this series I included a drawing of objects that pertain to baseball rather than an athlete because I did not want to restrict the audience to only teams I am a fan of. This series brings me joy and pride as I add it to my memory bank.

BIO

Pia Cisneros attended Cal State East Bay and received a B.F.A in art concentrating in Fine Art Practice in Spring 2020. Her work is based on inspirations and memory. Different inspirations and memories come from Catholicism, being a Bay Area native, and other personal interests. She uses charcoal to bring her works to life, working in hyperrealism. Pia is not limited by this and has also worked in painting, printmaking, ceramics, and other art forms.

She took part in “Art of the Heart” sponsored by Kaiser Permanente and received the AP Studio Art Department Award while attending Castro Valley High School. Her work has been shown at the Hayward Area Historical Society and several times at California State East Bay University.

Pia was raised in a religious Mexican, Italian household. She currently still lives in the Bay Area, California.