Guatemala
Market Women in Chichicastenango
Starting with stone lithographs of lush forest,
these mixed media works on paper were truck-tracked with fresh
tar, then torn into small squares. They serve as a foundation
that speaks to the situation imposed on the Maya: pushed off
their land and treated like slaves on plantation style agricultural
production facilities owned by multinational corporations.
They fill US demands for cheap commodities which comes at
a severe cost to both people and the environment. The texture
of tar is an echo of the continuing destructive influence
of these corporations. Tar is made from oil which also makes
up the petrochemicals used in the style of agriculture that
is decimating the environment.
Somehow, Mayan culture is not decimated. They maintain an
incredible dedication to tradition, working in harmony with
the environment. Ancient customs are manifested through the
colorful and intricate weavings which are worn with pride.
These portraits are of Mayan women from the highlands market
in Chichicastenango. Exploring a wide range of human emotion
from being weary and hurt to looking forward with hope, the
vignettes are intended to explore the breadth and range of
emotional textures in this community.
right: venta de plátanos &
espera - tar, sharpie, watercolor & pencil over torn lithograph
- 2010
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