Summer collection of LGBTQ+ art created by Merced County Youth! Every season, We’Ced showcases local artists’ pieces on LGBTQ+ experiences. 

Trans Pride

By Ashe Aguirre

I drew somewhat of a self portrait but added some little fun details to it, along with a quote. 

“My name is Ashe Aguirre 🙂 I’m a Mexican American transgender (FTM) artist. I’m 19 and currently attending college to pursue my career in art and hope to some day inspire others and make something for everyone to enjoy!”

A Vase

By Victoria Mendez Leon

My poem, A Vase, is an embodiment of a reinforced thought that my voice is not enough. Because of this thought, I have remained complacent when my body is violated. I have let others treat me as an object, as if I was theirs. 

“I am a queer Chicanx student that cares deeply  about art. I love expressing myself through paintings, poems, & essays.”

Bisexual Love 

By Natalia Stewart 

The red represents the attraction to the same genders. The blue represents attraction to different genders. The purple represents the love toward both genders harmonizing them. This painting also represents the act of trying. Trying new things just as genders. The different layers of bi love when you break it down. It’s not that I prefer one gender over the other but I love both of them at the same time.

“I am currently 18 years old, bisexual, and I go to Merced College. My major is Psychology and I’m in my second semester

Quinton Nanez

Quinton, a We’Ced member, gives her speech on her identity and acceptance. The speech was presented at Merced’s 2025 LGBTQ+ Flag Raising event.

Silver Matheson

Silver, a We’Ced member, gives their speech on their identity and acceptance. The speech was presented at Merced’s 2025 LGBTQ+ Flag Raising event. 

Her Smile, My Secret

Lexi Cornelius

A girl who likes a girl but everyone tells her its wrong. She can’t help but feel this way for this girl so instead of having everyone shame her, she keeps it a secret. 

“A teenage girl who found out she had feelings for other genders at the age of 10. She was told by everyone (mostly family) that it was wrong so she kept it a secret.”

Thermal Cracking, Incorrect Form

Xeffrei Champion

“My experience with being transgender, and the feelings that arise”

Eye on Trans People

Spencer Dunham

An art piece depicting trans top surgery scars with an eye over it seeing more of yourself and who you can be with physical and mental transition 

“Fun. Lighthearted. Life of the party. Kind. Friendly. Always yapping”