My work focuses on the concepts of community and conflict as a way to examine how these themes juxtapose each other and what that says about society regarding what has been happening recently in Minnesota with ICE. I choose this topic because there are members in my community, including my peers and professors at Gustavus, who I know are at risk because of ICE. These pieces are meant to demonstrate both the positive and negative aspects of socialization, and speak to how complex the idea of community can be. 

This exploration of works focuses on the concept of ‘spiritual resistance’, using artwork to reject or dissent what the government has currently been doing to immigrants and the communities surrounding them within Minnesota. This artwork is a representation of dissent in a peaceful form, and aims to show why community is so vital at a time when it is being hindered. I am currently using traditional sketches, digital art and animation as a means to explore these ideas. In this digital age, where most pieces of art are being posted to social media, digital art became the best medium choice in order to promote this message to the public. I focus on movement, vibrant colors and a simple style to convey the meaning behind my work and breathe life into my pieces.

Kristen Bonneville is an illustrator, photographer and animator from Edina, Minnesota. She creates her digital pieces through the use of Adobe Photoshop, and uses traditional sketches and photography as references for her work. She loves telling stories with her work, since she feels that it gives her a way to connect to her community. Currently, Kristen is pursuing her bachelor’s degree with a focus on studio art and French at Gustavus Adolphus College, and finding ways to put her skills to use.