Medel captures the vibrancy of his eastside neighborhood in works that range from intimate snapshots to expansive street scenes, always with the aim of distilling and preserving the ephemeral feelings and fleeing moments that make up a thriving community. These works also celebrate a bustling street culture that has suffered a summer of ICE raids and unrest, which has stolen a sense of security that will be slow to return.
"There are always bad things happening and good things happening, and I just want people to take a break from the onslaught of sad news. Even for just thirty seconds, this is a chance to share something gentle and caring."