Hello! My name is Lucia Peraza. I am currently a user experience design major at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, SAIC. My father is a Venezuelan graphic designer, and my mother is an American entrepreneur, and I spent half of my childhood living in Switzerland. The one thing that has remained constant throughout my life is the power of emotional connections. My work reflects this concept, and examines the way we connect and share with others through our emotions. I process my thoughts and feelings on different concepts through the ritual methodology of making art, with an intention to connect with an audience, to build relationships both inter- and intrapersonally. Beyond human interactions, I have a passion for the natural world around us, and often draw inspiration therefrom, as well as the intersections of humanity and nature. After I graduate, I plan on opening my own sustainable design firm, doing my part in making the world a more beautiful place.

There are three things in this life that I truly believe in: The power of equality, the power of the natural world, and the power within each and every person to be loving and kind. To quote the charming character of Gustave H. the concierge in Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel: “The most dreadful and unattractive person need only be loved and he will open up like a flower”. Positivity and inclusion are the cornerstones to any functional society, both towards one another and the world around us. This is the reason why I chose to work with the Inclusivi-tee team, a team who is doing their part to spread love and inclusion.

When I was approached to do a t-shirt design for this non-profit, I was surprised. There I was, a student with lofty dreams for my artistic practice, being asked to design one of the FIRST shirts that would be released by this company! I was over the moon! Then, as I learned more and more about their mission, I felt truly honored to be considered by a group who took the initiative to try and work against some of the wrongs that have been done to this country given the new political climate. A company who saw the need for love and kindness, and was finding a way to provide that in a creative way, while simultaneously supporting artists such as myself.

Now, as I put the final touches on my design, I am continuously inspired by the kindness and helpfulness this team has shown me, and I am proud to say that I get to work with this team to help make the world a better place for everyone.