On January 25, 2023, I had the pleasure of speaking with Maria Lopez, a renowned sculptor based in Oakland, whose work is gaining increasing recognition for its exploration of identity, community, and transformation. Lopez’s sculptures, which often incorporate recycled materials and found objects, have been displayed in public spaces throughout the Bay Area and have become a powerful medium through which she communicates messages of resilience and cultural connection.
Lopez, a first-generation Mexican-American artist, has always been inspired by the community around her and the materials that tell a story. “Growing up in Oakland, I’ve seen firsthand the power of community. I want my work to reflect the strength, beauty, and complexity of the people I’m surrounded by,” she shared during our interview at her Oakland studio, a converted warehouse space filled with her works-in-progress.
Her sculptures often combine elements of traditional Mexican art with modern, abstract forms, creating pieces that speak to the ongoing journey of cultural identity. One of her most recent works, “Roots of the Future”, is a large-scale sculpture made from discarded metal and wood. The piece represents the intertwining of past and future generations, symbolizing how roots in the community can provide strength to move forward. It was unveiled in a public installation in Oakland’s Jack London Square earlier this year and has received rave reviews for its intricate design and thought-provoking message.
Lopez’s process is deeply rooted in her commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. “I believe that art has the power to tell a story and give new life to discarded things. Every material I use has a history, and I aim to give that history a second chance,” Lopez explained. Her use of upcycled materials not only makes a statement about sustainability but also challenges the way we perceive art. Her sculptures often have a second layer of meaning, where the materials themselves contribute to the narrative she is telling.
In addition to her sculptural work, Lopez is passionate about arts education and community engagement. She regularly leads workshops for young artists in Oakland, encouraging them to use their art to express their cultural identities and their visions for the future. “Art is a tool for empowerment,” Lopez said. “By teaching young people to create, I’m helping them find their own voice and, hopefully, a way to transform their world.”
Her work reflects the broader changes happening in Oakland, where a burgeoning arts scene is being shaped by artists who are as much about activism as they are about expression. Lopez’s sculptures serve as an anchor in the city’s vibrant arts community, and she is quickly becoming an influential voice in the larger California art scene.
As Lopez continues to gain recognition for her innovative approach to sculpture, her journey serves as a reminder of the importance of art as a means of communication, transformation, and connection. Through her work, Lopez is not just creating objects; she is telling stories of resilience, community, and the ongoing search for identity.
