For Jonathan Godinez, stepping back into the Norco College Art Gallery wasn’t just a homecoming—it marked a profound full-circle moment in his artistic journey. Once a student worker in this very gallery, Godinez has now returned, not to set up exhibitions for others but to present his own. His solo exhibition, Internal Construction, will run from March 10 through April 30, 2025, showcasing his evolution as an artist and exploring the deep intersections of identity, memory, and self-construction. 

A Journey Rooted in Norco College 

Godinez’s artistic path began somewhat unexpectedly. Initially unsure of his major, he took introductory art classes at Norco College as electives. However, with the encouragement of the faculty—including Walpa D’Mark, Barbara May, Megan Lindeman, and Quinton Bemiller—he began to see art as more than a hobby; it became his calling. 

Over three years, Godinez immersed himself in nearly every art course Norco offered, even extending his studies to digital art classes at Riverside City College. His dedication led to a position working in the Norco College Art Gallery, where he gained hands-on experience that would later shape his professional career. 

“I look back now and realize that the level of teaching I received at Norco exceeded that of many of my undergraduate courses. The confidence I built here allowed me to tackle new disciplines and excel in them,” Godinez reflected. 

Building on the foundation he created at Norco College, Godinez continued to push his artistic boundaries. After completing his studies at Norco, he earned his bachelor’s degree in Studio Arts from California State University, Long Beach, followed by a Master's degree in Fine Arts from Claremont Graduate University. His experience in art handling and gallery management has taken him to The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture and the Riverside Art Museum, solidifying his place in the professional art world. 

Internal Construction: Exploring Identity Through Art 

In “Internal Construction,” Godinez dives into the hidden frameworks of identity and memory. Through sculpture, painting, and multimedia installations, he examines the ways individuals build, deconstruct, and reconstruct their inner worlds. Inspired by his own journey—growing up in Tijuana, immigrating to the U.S., and navigating the complexities of cultural identity—his work uses architectural metaphors and consumerist imagery to challenge perceptions of self. 

“I became subconsciously aware of everything I left behind when I moved to the U.S.,” Godinez shared. “I held onto my childhood memories as treasures while working hard to adapt to a new environment. That tension between past and present is at the core of my work.” 

By incorporating 3D printing, digital modeling, and traditional sculptural techniques, Godinez continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, blending craftsmanship with contemporary technologies. 

A Homecoming and an Inspiration 

Godinez’s return to Norco College was marked by a well-attended Opening Reception & Art Talk on March 13, where he engaged with students, employees, and community members, sharing insights into his creative process and artistic philosophy. Attendees were captivated by his reflections on art’s role in shaping identity and his journey from a Norco student to an accomplished artist exhibiting in the very space where he once worked. 

Looking ahead, Godinez is eager to give back to the next generation of artists. One of his long-term goals is to teach art, particularly focusing on digital and 3D techniques. He recently secured a private studio space with fellow artists from his graduate program, further cementing his commitment to artistic growth and collaboration. 

For current and aspiring Norco College art students, Godinez offers simple yet profound advice: “Surround yourself with other artists. Go to shows together, discuss art, and push each other to grow. Being an amazing artist takes time and commitment, but having a community makes the journey even more rewarding.” 

With “Internal Construction,” Jonathan Godinez builds an exhibition and lays the foundation for future generations of artists at Norco College, proving that the journey from student to professional artist is truly a full-circle moment. 

For more details on “Internal Construction” and art gallery viewing times, visit https://www.norcocollege.edu/art/index.html.