My name is Elina Marquez, many know me by my artist name Deathlili.
I’m a mixed-media Chicana artist born & raised in Mesa, Arizona. My father introduced me to art at an early age. I remember spending endless evenings in his studio; every wall was a canvas, colors ran from the floors to the ceiling. One of my fondest memories was being handed an empty Budweiser can to use as a palette, I was painting a small corner of the room he reserved just for me. Through the support of both my parents, I was able to immerse myself in all things creative.
My style developed organically. My culture, nostalgia, & sexuality heavily influence what I create. My interpretation of fine-line Chicano art is something I take immense pride in.
What’s most important to me is the impact I leave on my community. I’m working to bridge the gap between the Chicano community and those living an alternative lifestyle.
The crossover of these subcultures is something I felt was underrepresented in my city until recently. I’ve always loved punk and darkwave, the moodier fashions and listening. But the models and artists hardly ever looked like the people in my life, or took note of the styles we grew up with. At times it’s been hard to relate, having the same interests but completely different influences than everyone else. My closest and I have experienced gatekeeping and interrogation in alternative spaces due to our dress and tattoos, even at events with Hispanic artists on stage. I wish more people were open to what new communities can bring to the table.
These days Phoenix has pretty big cholo-goth & darkwave-cumbia scenes, and more brown people in general have been stepping into the blacklight. Shirts N Things is a clothing store that’s been very kind & open to me, as well as the whole alternative community over the years. But initially, the inadequate representation of people who came from walks of life like mine propelled me into creating art that represents us – we are more than the common misconceptions of lowriding, gang culture, & baggy clothing. We too enjoy a darker side of life and heavy music.
Introversion has been a challenge for me as I navigate my way through the art world. I conduct most of my business and networking online. Yet I’ve established myself as an artist despite the lack of in-person interactions. From creating art for some of my favorite bands to featuring my work in renowned galleries, I prefer to live in privacy while letting my art speak for itself.
