Joteria Undocumented
Joteria Undocumented showcases the experiences of queer immigrants using traditional Mexican iconography and language to challeng prevailing viewpoints. Drawing inspiration from stories shared in workshops, I reinterpret cultural and religious imagery through the lens of LGBTQ+ Spanish language. Participants often shared insights about their families' religious attitudes toward LGBTQ+ beliefs. At the same time, some members of the LGBTQ+ community learned about the struggles faced by undocumented individuals. This project aims to bridge the divide between LGBTQ+ and immigrant communities through art, culture, and discussion. The artwork is featured on an 8’ x 3’ roll-up vinyl banner for display in various locations. Art Shows and
Presentations: Silver City, NM; Las Cruces, NM; Albuquerque, NM; Las Vegas, NM; Clovis, NM; Salt Lake City,UT; Boulder, CO; Longmont, CO
La Virgen Lesbiana reimagines La Virgen de Guadalupe as a lesbian figure. La Virgen is one of the most recognizable symbols of faith within Catholic and immigrant communities. I transformed her into a lesbian to emphasize lesbian-identified immigrants as an integral part of the culture.
UndocuQueer is a person who embodies the calavera to represent their multiple identities as a queer immigrant. Inspired by the Día de los Muertos skull, this individual is half human, illustrating the duality and the aspect of their identity that many people conceal for safety.
El Mariachi Joto depicts a man proud to be a gay mariachi. This artwork was created to challenge perceptions of masculinity in Mexican culture. The term ‘Joto’ is often used derogatorily, but in this image, the man is reclaiming it to celebrate his identity.
El Matachin Bisexual is a Matachine, a traditional religious dancer who often performs during the Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12th and other Catholic celebrations. A recreation of a cultural figure intended to challenge its perspective through language.
