The Goody Bag, Pepe's Way

Not even the evening showers could stop our celebration with Pepe Mar in the most true-to-Pepe way. From the tacos to the tunes by DJ Adora, the artwork reveal event referenced the artist's connection to home, his Mexican heritage, queer culture and the importance of community.

And then, there’s the art! Collecting upcycled objects from thrift stores such as Out of the Closet in Miami, Pepe’s self-described obsession with folk art, fashion, patterns and color serve as the raw materials for his assemblages. Every object has its own distinct history, and by layering them, Pepe is creating an entirely new narrative. As the final commissioned artist as of Season Three, Pepe presented each Commissioner Collector with a custom-designed fabric goody bag replete with a signature encased canvas-collage work.

Enjoy photos from the event captured by Andrea Lorena and learn more about Pepe’s artistic practice.

Joanna Davila