SMALL WORKS
SMALL WORKS
Photography in collaboration with William Thaggard
At the core of the series is a message of self-actualization, transcending physical constraints and resonating with the struggles faced by many trans individuals against societal norms. Beyond external factors, the work emphasizes seizing control of one's true self, free from challenges like resource access and familial support.
The small works series offers viewers a glimpse into the artist's metamorphosis—a triumphant rebirth reclaiming agency over personal identity. Ultimately, it encapsulates the struggle for self-acceptance and the emergence of an authentic, self-actualized existence.
The size of works in this series reflects the artist's challenges as an immigrant trans artist of color, exploring the complexities of her access to resources.
PARTRUITION
(2021)
12” x 9”
Acrylic on Board
Parturition is a symbolic abstract piece depicting trans birth. Upon looking back at the artist’s existence, the observation that trans people, especially those in the early stages of questioning their gender, can have trouble putting words to their experiences is explored in the canvas of the piece. These experiences can also be difficult to understand for people who have never questioned their gender thus the message in the piece is the spirit of self-actualization. This realization resonates so strongly with many trans people – the existence of a true identity beyond the physical form, an ideal self that one can seize control of unlike many other aspects of the transgender experience such as resources, legislations, familial support and many more.
Photography in collaboration with William Thaggard
SIREN’S CALL - PARTRUITION
(2022)
Brooklyn, NY
Photographic Print on Canvas
“SIREN’S CALL - Parturition," as a photographic work in collaboration with William Thaggard, emerges as a poignant visual narrative encapsulating the profound journey of trans birth. Within the intricate frames of the photograph, the artist delves into the intricacies of their own existence, unveiling a reflection on the challenges faced by trans individuals, particularly those navigating the early stages of questioning their gender.
The photograph not only serves as a mirror reflecting the internal struggles of trans individuals but also functions as a bridge of understanding for those who may not have questioned their gender. The visual language employed by the artist invites viewers into the realm of ambiguity and introspection, fostering empathy and awareness about the challenges faced by the transgender community.
“AND GOD CREATED A WOMXN OF COLOR”
“AND GOD CREATED A WOMXN OF COLOR”
(2020)
11” x 8.5”
Acrylic on Paper
Reflecting the discrepancies between the aesthetic qualities one often perceives as “feminine”, such as being submissive and the her own experience of what it is to be an artist today. The piece explores the representation of the female form outside of the ‘male gaze’ through a symbolic abstraction process.
“BAKLA”
(2023)
17” x 14”
Acrylic on Board with Gold Foil and Painted Frame
"Bakla is a portrait through an abstraction process that intricately explores the concept of gender fluidity within the context of the Philippines. Through a vibrant palette and dynamic brushstrokes, the artwork symbolizes the diverse spectrum of gender expressions associated with individuals assigned male at birth who adopt a feminine identity.
Culturally, the painting engages with the historical and contemporary struggles for LGBTQ+ rights in the Philippines. By spotlighting the experience of a “Bakla”, it contributes to a broader conversation on acceptance and inclusivity, fostering dialogue and understanding. "Bakla'' transcends conventional artistic boundaries, offering a powerful representation of the beauty inherent in embracing one's authentic self. This visually striking and emotionally resonant artwork encourages a reevaluation of societal norms, promoting a celebration of the diverse spectrum of human identity.
“PUKAW - ARISE”
(2022)
19” x 23”
(2) Acrylic on Board
The work invokes gender euphoria and the representation of the overall goal of the artist’s work. It aims to continue to create active paintings which do not submit to the ‘gaze’, but have the capacity to affect the viewer – paintings indicative of a feminine legacy but expressing the true agency and power of being queer and sharing it to the viewer regardless of their gender identity. Both sets of paintings induce a singular figure and if it's not for the figures, the viewer wouldn't be brought back to the fact that this is a natural landscape of abstract earth. The portrayal of the landscape in a macroscopic view whilst the figures give it a microscopic point in scale gives these figures grounds that shows the viewer that euphoria is an attainable earthly pleasure. The combination of overwhelm but at the same time rooting into a realized experience makes it a poignant reminder that we are this small figure in an epic expansion capable of having this same intense feeling.