Yvette Mayorga’s ‘Magic Grasshopper’ Sculpture to Debut at Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, FL – March 20, 2026 – The Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, will unveil “Magic Grasshopper,” a large-scale kinetic sculpture by artist Yvette Mayorga, on Thursday, March 26, at 6:00 PM. The 30-foot-long artwork explores themes of migration, feminized labor and colonial histories, presented through a vibrant and fantastical lens.
A Sculpture Rooted in Narrative
“Magic Grasshopper” is described as an opulent carriage drawn by carousel-style horses, adorned with elements of 1990s nostalgia. The sculpture carries critical narratives of migration, feminized labor, and colonial histories, designed to metaphorically transport viewers across borders and historical eras. It serves as a tribute to the journeys undertaken in pursuit of the American Dream.
Artistic Technique and Inspiration
Mayorga’s signature technique, utilizing thickened acrylic applied through pastry bags – a “faux-frosting” – references her family’s history of baking and the broader contributions of women and immigrant labor. The use of pink is intentional, acting as a “sugary shield” and a portal to a hopeful future. The sculpture incorporates details like suitcases stacked on the roof, Hello Kitty backpacks on the horses, and a smiley-face flag, creating a disarmingly sweet exterior.
Cultural Influences
The artwork too pays homage to Mexican-American lowrider culture with tricked-out wheels featuring gold rims. Painterly scenes of migration wrap around the carriage, layering European art historical tropes with personal and collective narratives. Mayorga has coined the term “Latinxoco” to describe her distinctive style, blending Latinx and Rococo aesthetics and the shared decadence of colonial Mexico and American culture. The carriage itself references the royal carriage of the Second Mexican Empire, modeled after the coronation coach of Louis XVI at the Palace of Versailles, and originally used at the Castillo de Chapultepec in Mexico City.
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Details
The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on the plaza in front of the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, located at 255 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Registration is required to attend the event. Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to explore the museum’s galleries; discounted admission of $16 for adults will be available, with free admission for MFA Members and those under 18. Pink attire is encouraged in the spirit of the artwork. Register here.
About the Artist
Yvette Mayorga is a Mexican-American artist known for her distinctive style and exploration of cultural identity and historical narratives. “Magic Grasshopper” was originally commissioned by Times Square Arts.