About
Jesse 'Chuche' Martinez, MA, is a freelance curator based out of San Francisco, CA. He was born and raised in Los Angeles to a family of Mexican immigrants and first-generation Latinos. Growing up Queer and Chicano gave him a wealth of knowledge and perspectives into the disparities that exist for people of diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, gender and queer identities. Jesse crafts thoroughly researched projects informed by his identity and experiences, as well as taking in outside perspectives to form considered, well-rounded final products.
The name 'Chuche' comes from a nickname given to Jesse by his great-grandmother at a young age. The nickname has become a way for Jesse to honor his lineage and the sacrifices made to provide him with the opportunities he has been afforded.
Education & Experience
Jesse received his Master's of Arts in Museum Studies, with an emphasis in Curation, from San Francisco State University in May 2026. He was selected by the faculty of his program to receive the Graduate Student Award for Distinguished Achievement granted by the College of Graduate Studies. He also served as the President of the Museum Studies Student Association for the 2025-26 academic year. His capstone creative work project is a permanent exhibit for the Special Collections Gallery titled On Strike! Shut It Down!: The SF State Strikes of 1968-69.
Jesse also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in the History of Art from the University of California, Berkeley, awarded in May 2023. His emphasis was Reception Studies, a new branch of art history focused on decolonial theory and reframing Eurocentric narratives. Before Cal, he was awarded an Associate of Arts degree in Art History from Mount San Antonio College in Walnut, CA.
Jesse currently volunteers his time and expertise with the Lamorinda Arts Council as a Curator and Board Member since January 2026. In the summer of 2025, he was selected to be the Exhibitions Fellow at the Palo Alto Art Center, a coveted and competitive fellowship in the Bay Area.
AI Policy and Discalimer
I have never, and will never, use Generative AI in any way, shape, or form, at any point in my curatorial process. I see the use of AI in some aspects of life, but it has no place in creative endeavors.
Thank you for taking the time to look over my portfolio!
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I am always looking for new and exciting curatorial opportunities. Please shoot me an email if you have a project you would like to collaborate on!