My work explores my identity as a Latino, veteran, and father, and counteracts the lack of positive representation of men of color in society. While they are similar to traditional piñatas in their design and construction, my sculptures are based on abstract representations of my internalized identity. These anthropomorphic forms stand rather than being hung, enacting ownership over their space. This allows them to take on a newly assigned identity and presence. These forms allow me to display, articulate, and communicate. the struggles I have experienced throughout my life because of systemic oppression.

Art work in Steel, wood, and cardboard by artist Saxon Martinez, as part of an exhibition entitled "Candalaria Paredes and Delores Martinez" in the Cora Stafford Gallery, University of North Texas, from April 4 to April 8, 2023.

Art work in mulberry paper, cardboard, by artist Saxon Martinez, as part of an exhibition entitled "Candalaria Paredes and Delores Martinez" in the Cora Stafford Gallery, University of North Texas, from April 4 to April 8, 2023.

Art work in matboard, tissue paper, and cardboard, by artist Saxon Martinez, as part of an exhibition entitled "Candalaria Paredes and Delores Martinez" in the Cora Stafford Gallery, University of North Texas, from April 4 to April 8, 2023.

Art work in cardboard, tissue paper, and paper, by artist Saxon Martinez, as part of an exhibition entitled "Candalaria Paredes and Delores Martinez" in the Cora Stafford Gallery, University of North Texas, from April 4 to April 8, 2023.

Art work in mulberry paper, paint, wood, and metal, by artist Saxon Martinez, as part of an exhibition entitled "Candalaria Paredes and Delores Martinez" in the Cora Stafford Gallery, University of North Texas, from April 4 to April 8, 2023.

Art work in cardboard, tissue paper, and paper, by artist Saxon Martinez, as part of an exhibition entitled "Candalaria Paredes and Delores Martinez" in the Cora Stafford Gallery, University of North Texas, from April 4 to April 8, 2023.

Art work in tissue paper, cardboard, and paper, by artist Saxon Martinez, as part of an exhibition entitled "Candalaria Paredes and Delores Martinez" in the Cora Stafford Gallery, University of North Texas, from April 4 to April 8, 2023.

Art work in tissue paper, cardboard, and paper, by artist Saxon Martinez, as part of an exhibition entitled "Candalaria Paredes and Delores Martinez" in the Cora Stafford Gallery, University of North Texas, from April 4 to April 8, 2023.

Art work in foamular and tissue paper, by artist Saxon Martinez, as part of an exhibition entitled "Candalaria Paredes and Delores Martinez" in the Cora Stafford Gallery, University of North Texas, from April 4 to April 8, 2023.

Art work in Cardboard, Tissue paper, and paper by artist Saxon Martinez, as part of an exhibition entitled "Candalaria Paredes and Delores Martinez" in the Cora Stafford Gallery, University of North Texas, from April 4 to April 8, 2023.

Art work in tissue paper, cardboard, and paper, by artist Saxon Martinez, as part of an exhibition entitled "Candalaria Paredes and Delores Martinez" in the Cora Stafford Gallery, University of North Texas, from April 4 to April 8, 2023.

Art work in matboard, mulberry paper, and paint, by artist Saxon Martinez, as part of an exhibition entitled "Candalaria Paredes and Delores Martinez" in the Cora Stafford Gallery, University of North Texas, from April 4 to April 8, 2023.

Art work in Cardboard and wood by artist Saxon Martinez, as part of an exhibition entitled "Candalaria Paredes and Delores Martinez" in the Cora Stafford Gallery, University of North Texas, from April 4 to April 8, 2023.