10 Multi-Culturally Sensitive Sculptures That Highlight The Importance Of Belonging

Twin sisters Haylie and Sydnie Jimenez harness the idea of found family in their art. Their creative process is an act of conjuring, a motif that defines their show ‘Speak of the Devil’ presented by Joy Machine. The phrase alludes to summoning someone’s presence simply by saying their name, and the sisters embrace this idea through their artful world-building.  Drawing on the support of their chosen family, they use ceramics and mixed media to commemorate the meaningful relationships and caring communities that have shaped their sense of belonging. Their sculptures serve as tributes to the friends and family who uplifted them. "We want to fully acknowledge our wonderful communities and depict them as they should be," the artists express.  Having grown up in the South and now working in Chicago, Sydnie’s art is focused on black and brown youth, celebrating self-expression as a means of protest and self-care. Meanwhile, Haylie explores themes of belonging and collective resilience. Through ‘Speak of the Devil,’ the sisters manifest the communities they cherish. With influences ranging from religious tradition to punk flair, their art fosters joyful, accepting, and connected spaces—welcoming alternatives to oppression. As Sydnie explains, they aim to create a “sacred and safe place for our people to walk in and feel comfortable and seen.” More info: JoymachineArt

#1 Haylie Jimenez, "My Girls" (2025) Glazed ceramic tile

Image Source: JoymachineArt

#2 Haylie Jimenez, “Lake Vibe” (2025) Multiple glazed ceramic tiles

Image Source: JoymachineArt

#3 Sydnie Jimenez, “Prima,” “Lil Shay,” “Big Tone,” “Cali Girl,” and “Malice” -from left- (2025) Glazed terracotta

Image Source: JoymachineArt

#4 Haylie Jimenez, “In the grass with a flower” (2025) Found table with grouted tiled image

  Image Source: JoymachineArt

#5 Sydnie Jimenez, "Tough to Grow (Dagger)" (2025) Glazed terracotta, rhinestone

Image Source: JoymachineArt

#6 Haylie and Sydnie Jimenez, “Te Quiero Mucho” (2025) Glazed terracotta

Image Source: JoymachineArt

#7 Sydnie Jimenez, "Lil Shay" (2025) Glazed terracotta

Image Source: JoymachineArt

#8 Haylie Jimenez, “Tangled Kudzu” (2025) Glazed ceramic tile

Image Source: JoymachineArt

#9 Sydnie Jimenez, “Jimenez Jersey” (2025) Glazed stoneware and rhinestones

Image Source: JoymachineArt

#10 Sydnie Jimenez, “Curtain Hair Guardian” (2025) Terracotta and oxide wash

Image Source: JoymachineArt