Threaded Connections: Unraveling the Internal

May 16 - May 23, 2024

Preview: May 16th, 4:30-6:30 PM

Closing Reception: May 23rd, 1:00-3:00 PM

The Art Gallery of the College of Staten Island

The City University of New York

Threaded Connections: Unraveling the Internal

BFA Senior Projects

Ashanti Alston

Raya Atayeva

Stephanie Caputo

Marianne Carlina

Gabriel Rey Guzmán

Tyla Lanovoi

Gabriela Muniz

Ita Ruiz

Daryn SantaMaria

Samantha Wilkinson

Threads of Identity: Unveiling Fashion Personas invites you to peek behind the scenes of people’s photo moments. In my series of large photographs, I reveal how individuals transform themselves when it’s time to say “cheese”. From fixing hair and makeup to picking out the perfect outfit, every detail contributes to crafting a persona—a version of themselves they want to show the world.

Have you ever noticed how people become their best selves for a photo? They put in effort to look just right, not just to impress others but to feel confident and true to themselves. It’s like they’re stepping into a spotlight, showcasing who they aspire to be at that moment.

But why do people do this? The answer is simple: everyone wants to look their best when it matters. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to feel good about themselves, dressing up for a photo is a way to present the ideal version of who they are or who they want to become.

In my photos, I capture this transformation—the excitement, the nerves, and the confidence that come with being in front of the camera. Through careful attention to detail, I show the emotions and aspirations woven into each carefully chosen outfit. Threads of Identity celebrates the magic of fashion in shaping how we see ourselves and others. It’s not just about the clothes; it’s about the stories we tell through them. Each photo in this series tells a tale of self-discovery and empowerment—a reminder that we have the power to define our own image.

This and opposite page: Untitled, from Threads of Identity series, pigment prints, 24”x 36”

Ultimately, Threads of Identity is a tribute to the power of fashion photography. It shows that behind every stunning image lies a story—a journey of selfexpression and validation. By sharing these moments of transformation, I hope to inspire others to embrace their own unique style and the personas they choose to showcase in front of the lens. After all, in a world where first impressions matter, how we dress can be a powerful form of self-expression and empowerment.

ASHANTI ALSTON

This page: Brittle, acrylic on canvas, 31.87”x 20” / Opposite page: Gross, acrylic on canvas, 31.87”x 20”

If I had to describe my art style, it’s definitely “punk” and that is an inference Mike made. I mess with the conventions of art making: instead of planning, I dive right into creating erratic, dark paintings. Finding materials, whether student-grade or professional, I let my body do the work while I pay attention to background noise. I envision my emotions to looking abstract and chaotic; overwhelm me with lots of dark colors moving around slow or fast. Black is death, blue is sorrow, red is anger, and green is sickness. The climactic event is scratching through the paint and slashing the canvas. I stitch or staple flaps back together, but I know it will not hold on any longer. To close the holes is like wanting to stay in a somber mental state.

After finishing my work, I am somewhat satisfied. Internally however, I am frustrated, sick, and angry because for years, I felt unsure what I wanted to create in the long run. I felt as though I was controlled by a parasite of doubt and fear. Comprehensible forms remind me of rigidness and limitation, so I think paintings do not have to look pictorial. Despite themes of violence and destruction manifested into artwork, I am generally comfortable and confident to begin my career doing what I love, creating.

RAYA ATAYEVA

My body of work is a heartfelt tribute to those grappling with mental health challenges. Having personally navigated the depths of depression and anxiety, I intimately comprehend the profound impact these struggles can wield over one’s existence. Each piece within my collection is a reflection of the emergence from that murky abyss of despair. Embodying not only the triumphant emergence, but also the enduring journey through the ever-shifting terrain of emotions and coping mechanisms.

My artistic practice serves as a channel for self analysis and empathy, fostering a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of mental health struggles and the profound significance of resilience and self-discovery. By inviting viewers into this personal narrative, I aspire to foster a sense of solidarity and compassion, encouraging dialogue and reflection on the universal human experience of navigating the complexities of mental health.

This page: Different Forms, digital drawing of suncatcher adorned with ten 9-inch stained glass daggers suspended from a chain / Opposite page: Rebirth, one of two plywood laser-cut panels displayed in tandem, 17”x 25”

STEPHANIE CAPUTO

I find the complexity in connectivity and boundaries - with oneself and to each other - endlessly interesting and I use it to inform my content. I believe the more we know about, accept and express ourselves authentically, the deeper and more genuine the connections we make with others and ourselves can be. Using color, texture and gesture in paint and sculpture, I hope for the viewer to connect to my work in whichever way it speaks to them so they will examine how they connect to themselves and to the people in the world around them physically,

opposite page:

emotionally, and spiritually. Focused on trauma and joy equally and inspired by my queer female existence and personal relationships, I share my response to the intense experiences of human connection, sometimes as ugly as it is beautiful. I invite the viewer to use my work to help them process their own experiences with these things and help them to purge and heal as well.

MARIANNE CARLINA

This and

Sublimation, diptych, acrylic, yarn, ink, oil pastels, paste on canvas, 36” x 96”

The existence of violence within intimate-partner and familial relationships is almost taboo to express, especially within traditional and public settings. The topic itself is quite gruesome, in which the vast majority of society makes that collective decision to turn a blind eye, simply because “It’s nobody’s business, but theirs”. P.O.W.E.R. is an installation piece of mixed-media prints, mylor, cyanotypes and furniture, to speak out against and break the current stigma associated

with domestic violence. The cutouts of the word “power” depict five distinct instances of intimate-partner or family violence, using realistic-fictious scenarios. In addition to this installation, there is a live concert performance that takes place at the closing reception of the exhibition; Three original songs from the upcoming Insecurities EP which

outline the feelings of angst and frustration with the desire to overcome the negative feelings associated with mental health conditions or posttraumatic stress.

GABRIEL REY GUZMÁN

This and opposite page: Letters, mixed media mono–types, paint pen, mylor, P 27”x 18.5”, O 10.5”x 17”, W 20.75”x 21.25”, E 21.5”x 18.5”, R 25”x 22.25”

I am captivated by the strength and grace of the women in my life whom I admire. Myself included. My primary intention was to celebrate and pay homage to the influential women in my life, blurring the lines between fantasy and the reality of these remarkable individuals. Through a process of experimentation, rich with vibrant color and intricate detail, I aim to elevate these women to the realm of mythological and fairy tale deities. My objective is to capture their essence and imbue them with a timeless beauty and significance that transcends the boundaries of reality. I invite viewers to perceive these women not merely as individuals, but as embodiments of strength, wisdom, fertility, and magic.

Each piece within my collection serves as a celebration of culture, history, and the enduring allure of the divine feminine. Through my art, I aspire to foster a deeper recognition and appreciation of the goddesses among us—both in the extraordinary women who inspire me and within each individual viewer. It is my hope that my work encourages others to honor and embrace the divine feminine qualities that reside within themselves and those around them.

Opposite page: Mokosh, watercolor, ink, colored pencil, gold leaf, 12” x 18”

TYLA LANOVOI

Porque Tengo Sed is a continuation of a series I started in 2023. I have been photographing my grandmother in her apartment where she has been living for over two decades, and exploring her relationship with her son, my uncle, and his drinking problems.

Alcohol is part of every culture, including in my Mexican heritage. Alcohol is meant to loosen you up and provide a good time, or a way to cope with different situations. With my uncle, alcohol

became his best friend. This was not only affecting himself and his health, but also his relationships with his family.

Growing up, it was normal for all my uncles to drink at every party and get wasted until the next morning. It wasn’t until I was in middle school, I noticed how serious my uncle’s alcoholism was. It’s all fun and games during parties until the beer becomes a part of you. It’s the constant leaving the house during the middle of the night coming home

until the next day all beat up. The endless empty beer bottles piling up in his room. The beer has taken over his life. There’s not a day or night where my uncle doesn’t have a beer in his hand. He has been isolating himself from everyone. Even though he is physically there, he is not present.

This and opposite page: Untitled, from Porque Tengo Sed series, pigment prints, sizes vary

GABRIELA MUNIZ

As a Mexican American photographer and 25-year resident of Staten Island, I sought to highlight the beauty and unique stories of Staten Island by capturing the often-overlooked aspects that make this borough a dynamic community. I photographed details of everyday life to challenge Staten Island’s infamous stereotypes and offer a more authentic portrayal of

this multilayered place I call home. In addition to my photographs, I recorded intimate interviews with residents from different parts of the “island” and different attachments to it. Together, I captured Staten Island’s authenticity: one where culture, art, history, age and diversity contribute to the vibrant tapestry of experiences here.

This and opposite page: Untitled, from the Life on Staten Island series, pigment prints, sizes vary

Audio Interviews

ITA RUIZ

This and opposite page: Untitled, two from the Inevitable series of ten, oil on canvas, sizes vary:

6”x 6”, 8”x 10”, 9”x 12”, 16”x 24”, 24”x 36”, 36”x 48”

DARYN SANTAMARIA

I hate the word Inevitable, yet it is incredibly insistent. My sister’s passing stains my life. My artwork is a testament to the grief that my family and I have endured over the last three years. Through both vibrant and darkened hues, my series confronts the inevitability of death; each oil painting a poignant reflection of my sister’s lasting impact.

Until We Meet Again

With my work I try to emulate various feelings. My work is both very fun and light hearted yet it is grim at the same time. I’ve grown up around the macabre and the very popular “creepy cute” aesthetic, those are very clear aspects in my work. I want an underlying feeling that something might be wrong or off but you won’t really ever know for sure. Especially with my sculptures I tried to capture a longing feeling. I often feel like I am yearning for something but I have everything I need. I hope the reaching grasps of these hollow hands feel like their longing for something more.

I can only hope for my work to have someone feel something and I prefer open interpretations over precise meanings. Everything changes.

This page: The Dolls,

/

found fabric, thread, polyfil, glass beads, 5.5”x 4”x 1”

Opposite page: Scenic Route, oil on canvas, 48”x 48”

SAMANTHA WILKINSON

ASHANTI ALSTON

Ashanti Alston is a photographer with over 7 years of experience in capturing life’s special moments. She was born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y and specializes in fashion and sports photography, aiming to make people feel beautiful while immortalizing their memories. She is currently getting her BFA degree at the College of Staten Island, while growing her business called AMA.Visions.

Ashanti’s journey in photography is marked by passion and creativity, constantly evolving with each client she works with. From couples and families to athletes and business owners, Ashanti is dedicated to telling their stories authentically and beautifully.

With a focus on creating stunning visual narratives, Ashanti’s goal is to capture the essence of each subject she photographs. Every session is a collaborative experience, where Ashanti listens closely to her clients’ visions and brings them to life with expertise and care.

Whether it’s a family portrait, a birthday celebration, or a sports event, Ashanti’s lens is always focused on her clients’ stories. With AMA.Visions, she is committed to crafting timeless memories that resonate deeply with those who experience them.

Join Ashanti Alston on a journey where every click tells a story, every image evokes emotion, and every moment becomes a cherished memory.

“Let’s Visualize Your Life In 4K” -AMA

Instagram: @ama.visions www.amavisions.photos

RAYA ATAYEVA

ARTISTS’ BIOS

After taking formal art courses, Raya Atayeva experimented with style and theme. Guidance from mentors, whether it was respectful feedback or blunt criticism, is what led up to her immersion in abstract art. Raya’s personal favorite movements include mannerism, expressionism, abstract expressionism, and surrealism. Representing her struggles in artwork is preferable as she believes her work can connect with people of all backgrounds without necessarily applying her personal context. Importantly, Raya values breaking away from family traditions by disproving that “real art” is realism and having control of her decisions instead of molding herself into what others expect.

STEPHANIE CAPUTO

Stephanie Caputo is a multidisciplinary artist based in Staten Island NY. She primarily works with printmaking, sculpting, and drawing. She will be graduating from the College of Staten Island, CUNY, with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree as of May 2024.

Instagram: @nianya.cyn

MARIANNE CARLINA

Marianne Carlina is a queer, cis female, interdisciplinary artist who creates abstract works in both painting and sculpture. She was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1975 and currently lives and works on Staten Island, New York. Her BFA in Studio Art is expected in the Spring of 2024 followed by a certification in Somatic Sexology in 2025. Since 2018 her work has been shown in venues such as Artpocalpyse Atlanta and Blank Canvas Gallery in Atlanta, GA, along with multiple student shows at the College of Staten Island, as well as in private collections in New York, Atlanta, and Ohio. Her work strives to share her experiences with the human connection.

GABRIEL REY GUZMÁN

Gabriel Rey Guzmán, born in October 2001, expresses advocacy for victims of domestic violence and those dealing and working through psychological or neurological conditions through various mediums, predominantly as a printmaker and musician. Since early-adolescence, he sketched many characters, forms and inspirations from video games and manga using graphite pencils – which have developed into hand-drawn abstract spirals or flames and a font reminiscent of psychedelic rock albums from the late-60s and early-70s. Guzmán uses color theory to emphasize the importance of the message, as it may recall a specific representation

of awareness. Self-taught for 3 years, with the help of his brother, Guzmán became an alternative rock bass player to further express the pain of those who are trapped under abusive influences of power. His music style is heavily influenced by the following Seattle bands: 7 Year Bitch, Alice In Chains, Nirvana, Skin Yard, Soundgarden and Tad.

TYLA FAITH LANOVOI

Tyla Faith Lanovoi is a multi-medium artist, and native New Yorker. She navigates her creative journey while embracing the joys of single motherhood to her remarkable son. With a deep passion for storytelling and a versatile approach to artistic expression, Tyla aspires to carve

her path within the entertainment industry. Currently pursuing her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at CUNY College of Staten Island, she is set to graduate in May 2024. Balancing the roles of mother and artist, Tyla infuses her creations with authenticity and depth, seeking to captivate audiences and inspire connections in a world brimming with imagination and possibility.

GABRIELA MUNIZ

Gabriela Muniz was born in Brooklyn but raised in Staten Island when she moved in 2006. Her work has been shown at College of Staten Island. Muniz works with digital, 35mm and medium format cameras. She will be

graduating from College of Staten Island in May of 2024 with a BFA Concentration in photography.

ITA RUIZ

Ita Ruiz is a Mexican American photographer based in New York City. She was born and raised in the Baruch Projects in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. She captures various types of portraits. Driven by details and a passion for crafting visual narratives, she naturally gravitated towards photography and its multifaceted nature. She recently began incorporating other sensory elements into her work, such as audio and video. As a mother of two and a member of the disability community, she

is committed to contributing her photography to the human experience: a commitment that involves not just taking photos, but also understanding the stories behind them and the impact they have on the viewer. Ita recently established Lily Studios LLC to further engage in the business of photography. In 2024, she received a merit scholarship supporting her pursuit of an MFA degree at the School of Visual Arts in New York City.

Instagram: @lily_studios_llc

DARYN SANTAMARIA

Daryn SantaMaria was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. She is an emerging artist who specializes

in oil painting. She is driven by both interesting and mundane topics, but her artwork focuses mainly on her personal experiences. Daryn is also a self taught animator, and enjoys sketching and writing poetry. She is graduating with her BFA in the fall of 2024.

Instagram: @airamatna.s

SAMANTHA WILKINSON

Samantha Wilkinson exists. She is a Staten Island based studio artist. She primarily works in lightweight sculpture materials to create a variety of wall hangs. Samantha is also an oil painter with a focus on bright color and varying texture.

The 2024 BFA students are grateful for your unique contributions to our development as artists and to the production of this exhibition. Together with the guiding forces that have enabled us to achieve our goals, you all have made a meaningful impact on our work.

CURATORS AND FACULTY

Dr. Cynthia Chris

Dr. Siona Wilson

Professor B. Reinhardt

Professor C. Verene

Professor M. Aragon

Professor B. Livensperger

Professor M. Weil

Professor Marsha Pels

Professor D. Duncan

Professor D. Dewaters

Professor S. Hager

Professor B. McGuire

LAB TECHNICIANS

Mike Kenny

Tim Briner

Brian Ortiz

FAMILY & FRIENDS

Ace Irving

Alexandra Ortega & Matthew Ortiz

Cynthia Ferretti, Yani Perez & Xochitl Ruiz

Chelsea Orengo & Shane Lepore

Marie Adragna & Lauren McCrimon

Toni, Robert, Thomas, Cassie, Katie

Carlina & Samir Kahwaji

Stephanie Pfouts

The Caputo, Makras & Vega Families

The SantaMaria Family & the loving memory of Jaime SantaMaria

The Solis & Muniz Family

The Wilkinson Pelucco Family & Friends

PROJECT GROUPS

AMA Models

AMA Valued Customers

Life on Staten Island Participants

BIO-PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHERS

Gerardo Mencia & Nando Brunetti

SPECIAL THANKS

We also extend our appreciation to the entire Department of Performing and Creative Arts and all departments at The College of Staten Island for their invaluable support throughout our academic journey.

On behalf of the whole College community, I wish to extend the warmest thanks to all the artists in this exhibition. You have worked hard to reach this goal—huge congratulations on your achievements and salutations for your future creative work!

A special thank you to Beatrix Reinhardt for all her labor, thought, and care in helping to nurture and guide the work of the BFA class of 2024 to a professional gallery presentation. We are grateful to Miguel Aragon, Tim Briner, Dillon Dewaters, David Duncan, Steven Hager, Mike Kenney, Beth Livensperger, Bridget McGuire, Brian Ortiz, Marsha Pels, Ben Peterson, Chris Verene, and Marianne Weil—all the advisers, studio instructors, and technical assistants who have worked closely with each individual student to help them realize their creative vision in the best form possible.

I wish to extend my thanks to the students enrolled in ART 305 for their help in making this exhibition happen.

Thanks to Dean Sarolta Takács and Provost Michael Steiper for understanding the vital importance of the arts at the college and for their presence in the Gallery. We are grateful to have an administration that recognizes the Gallery as a vital center for cultural life at our college, a place for laughter, delight, learning, and somewhere to have difficult conversations in a caring environment.

Together with the support of my colleagues in the Performing and Creative Arts Department, we are delighted to offer a cultural venue in which students from across all divisions and schools can interact with faculty, staff, and our esteemed college President, Timothy Lynch.

Drs. Cynthia Chris and Siona Wilson Co-curators Spring 2024