Project 1 Artist Statement
Gaze Pressed Coins Typology Photo Series
By Sergio Aguiniga
In Gaze, each pressed coin represents a chapter in my life, a tangible memory of where I’ve been and what I’ve discovered. These coins are more than souvenirs; they’re reminders of moments that have shaped who I am. Each one holds a story—a connection to family, heritage, and experiences that have left their mark on me. Each photo has a unique coin that I acquired in different background with illustrations I made representing objects and images I’ve seen in each location.
The coin from the National Constitution Center, with “We the People” engraved on its surface, takes me back to a school field trip in Philadelphia. I remember the awe I felt as a young student, discovering the history of our country and the ideals that hold it together. That day, I began to understand what it means to belong to something larger than myself, and this coin is a small reminder of that feeling.
The peso from Monterrey brings me close to my roots. It holds memories of visiting family, of the warmth and love I feel when I’m with them. When I see this coin, I think of my grandfather, my cousins, and the laughter that fills my family’s home in Mexico. It connects me to a part of myself that feels grounded and whole.
Then there’s the coin from the San Diego Zoo, stamped with a panda, my mom’s favorite animal. I spent so many afternoons at the zoo as a child, exploring and marveling at the world’s creatures. This coin is like a little piece of my childhood—a reminder of the innocence and wonder I felt back then, of being carefree and curious, and of the bond I share with my mom.
The Balboa Park coin brings me back to my hometown in San Diego. That place was always an escape, a source of inspiration. I remember wandering through its gardens and museums, taking in the art and architecture. Balboa Park is where I felt most connected to my surroundings, and this coin holds the comfort and inspiration I found there.
Finally, there’s the coin from Sedona, Arizona, engraved with its red mountains and rivers. This one marks a new beginning. I got it soon after moving to Arizona, while exploring the awe-inspiring red rock landscapes. It’s a reminder of stepping into the unknown, of finding beauty and adventure in a new place, and of the possibilities that lie ahead.
Together, these coins tell the story of my journey—of family, discovery, and the places that have shaped me. I hope that in viewing these photos, others can feel the same connection to their own travels and experiences, and remember the joy of holding onto memories, one coin at a time.
By Sergio Aguiniga
In Gaze, each pressed coin represents a chapter in my life, a tangible memory of where I’ve been and what I’ve discovered. These coins are more than souvenirs; they’re reminders of moments that have shaped who I am. Each one holds a story—a connection to family, heritage, and experiences that have left their mark on me. Each photo has a unique coin that I acquired in different background with illustrations I made representing objects and images I’ve seen in each location.
The coin from the National Constitution Center, with “We the People” engraved on its surface, takes me back to a school field trip in Philadelphia. I remember the awe I felt as a young student, discovering the history of our country and the ideals that hold it together. That day, I began to understand what it means to belong to something larger than myself, and this coin is a small reminder of that feeling.
The peso from Monterrey brings me close to my roots. It holds memories of visiting family, of the warmth and love I feel when I’m with them. When I see this coin, I think of my grandfather, my cousins, and the laughter that fills my family’s home in Mexico. It connects me to a part of myself that feels grounded and whole.
Then there’s the coin from the San Diego Zoo, stamped with a panda, my mom’s favorite animal. I spent so many afternoons at the zoo as a child, exploring and marveling at the world’s creatures. This coin is like a little piece of my childhood—a reminder of the innocence and wonder I felt back then, of being carefree and curious, and of the bond I share with my mom.
The Balboa Park coin brings me back to my hometown in San Diego. That place was always an escape, a source of inspiration. I remember wandering through its gardens and museums, taking in the art and architecture. Balboa Park is where I felt most connected to my surroundings, and this coin holds the comfort and inspiration I found there.
Finally, there’s the coin from Sedona, Arizona, engraved with its red mountains and rivers. This one marks a new beginning. I got it soon after moving to Arizona, while exploring the awe-inspiring red rock landscapes. It’s a reminder of stepping into the unknown, of finding beauty and adventure in a new place, and of the possibilities that lie ahead.
Together, these coins tell the story of my journey—of family, discovery, and the places that have shaped me. I hope that in viewing these photos, others can feel the same connection to their own travels and experiences, and remember the joy of holding onto memories, one coin at a time.
