California State University, Stanislaus (Stan State), very own Art Department i hosting their Bachelor’s of Fine Arts (BFA) Graduating Senior Exhibition from May 11 till June 30 at the Art Space on Main in Downtown Turlock. 

Immediately stepping into the quiet space, viewers are welcomed with multiple art pieces to their left. There is a two piece series separated by a big painting in the middle that caught viewers attention. These three pieces belong to Joel Aguilar (senior, Art), one of the gallery’s main feature artist. 

Aguilar was born in Turlock and raised in Livingston, where he has lived his whole life until he got the amazing opportunity to go to school in Florence, Italy for a year through Stan State’s study abroad program.  

His experience as an art student in Florence was a lot different from what he expected. thought it would be tradition.

Upon his arrival, he thought that the academic expectations would be different and more traditional.

“They were very interested in more modern techniques,” Aguilar said. “They really wanted us to work with like digital, and that’s kind of frowned upon in the town.” 

He’s had pictures of his work from Florence published in the “Penumbra,” a book Stan State puts out every year that features poetry and art.

His experience in Florence and his return back to Turlock influenced his two piece series. When he returned, Aguilar felt different from when he left.

“I was lost with who I was and I was trying to find out like ‘who am I here’,” Aguilar said. 

The search for identity is what inspired the two paintings.

His third painting captures different experiences and challenges he and his twin brother faced within a year.

Aguilar’s twin brother has heavily influenced him in most of his art work. With his brother being a music major and him being a art major, the two feeds off each others creativity.

His other major influences include rock band, Tame Impala. Both of the paintings from his two piece series are named after their song titles, “Yes, I’m Changing” and “Why Won’t They Talk To Me?”.

His bigger piece, is untitled and features a reddish streak, similar to the one on Tame Impala’s “Currents” album. Aguilar’s work is also influenced by street artist, Felipe Pantone. 

While he has plans to be a teacher following graduation, Aguilar is working hard to make a name for himself in the art world. 

“I feel more like a business major because I’m just trying to get my things out there: Making business cards, making advertisements, talking to people like if they’re going to be my clients in the future,” Aguilar said. “I just talk to them about my whole life because once they know about you then they get more interested.” 

Be sure to check out Aguilar’s and the many other amazing artists’ work at the Art Space on Main. You can find out the address and hours for the Art Space on Main on the school website or you can contact Nikki Boudreau at 209-664-9865.