Guadalupe/Tonantzin/Coatlicue

This art installation explores an Indigenous and intuitive understanding of the feminine force by reinterpreting ancient motifs. Central to the theme are the influential figures of Tonantzin, Coatlicue, and Our Lady of Guadalupe, drawn from ancient and contemporary Mexican and Chicano thought. The installation aims to bridge these cultural icons within a humanistic interpretation, offering a unique exploration of the nature of reality.

This exhibition aims to honor my Chicano heritage by delving into these powerful female indigenous symbols and examining their significance and legacy through the lens of both tradition and modernity. By reimagining these motifs, the installation pays tribute to ancestors and their painful past and invites viewers to contemplate the intricate connections between culture, spirituality, and the timeless quantum realm.

Theme and Motif:

“Tonantzin, Coatlicue, Guadalupe” forms the centerpiece of this exhibition. It presents the confluence of Indigenous and colonial influences and explores the figures of Tonantzin, Coatlicue, and Our Lady of Guadalupe to underscore their enduring relevance in contemporary culture. Additionally, it reflects the resilience and evolving identity of the Chicano community. This group has continually negotiated its place within the broader societal framework of Mexico and the United States. The exhibition celebrates the symbolic significance of historical contexts and present-day narratives, thus enriching an understanding of Chicano culture.