Issis Macias and Rodrigo Carapia collaborate to honor their shared Mexican heritage. The two artists have distinct styles. Macias begins each piece with an intuitive abstract composition, drawing on color, texture, and emotion. Working independently, Carapia responds by layering figurative imagery. Together, they create artwork that bridges abstraction and representation while fostering connection, belonging, and cultural pride.
The painting depicts an axolotl (pronounced AX-oh-lot-ul) adorned with symbols inspired by Aztec culture. This endangered salamander, native to the canals of Xochimilco in Mexico City, has the remarkable ability to regenerate its limbs and organs. For Macias and Carapia,
the axolotl embodies transformation, resilience, and renewal.
Funded by the Madison Community Foundation
Accession No. 2025.13PA
