She Breathes in Dirt and Exhales Flowers/Mejor Sola Que Mal Acompañada

is an exhibition of photographic work that combines the beauty and mastery of my grandmother sewing art and my photographic practice. This body of work seeks to combine my older project, Why Give Me Flowers When I'm Dead?…, taking the flowers that I gave to mi abuela when she was still alive and putting them back into a form/body to celebrate her after she has passed. The flowers spilling out of every collar, sleeve, pant leg, and skirt adorning a body that is no longer alive, to give it a revitalized expression, challenging the perception of reality through an on-site installation. Here the photographic image is digitally sublimated on chiffon, crushed velvet, and iridescent spandex , making it a pliable object to, lay, drape , and sag over forms. The sculptural elements are created with sheet metal, foam, fabric, and resin in a more  refined manner that allows the forms to be recognizable, as a heart, cross, bodies, stands, waves, and a rosary. Accenting some sculptural elements with LED lights, to emanate a spiritual glow, with created and found objects. Everything meant to highlight how mi grandma’s keen fashion scene, helped her navigate space as a Mexican women in East Los Angeles.  Where she was forced to explore the power of persistence of assimilation. Using American and European patterns like Burdock, and Vogue, yet chose to show her heritage through her vibrant color choices and patterns. Creating outfits that celebrate and conceal her Mexican identity. I took the power back and connected our creative practice to celebrate her love and life. Amore Eterno

2021-2022