My Quinceanera..

(Sometimes it's better to live through recorded moments, and remind yourself that the here and now is never permanent. That tomorrow can be better, brighter, and that our balance of existence flows unevenly. And according to what I have been taught, when things reach one extreme they eventually turn into their opposite. Excuse me while I relish, and ignore the clouds at hand.)

I once entertained the thought of throwing salon parties, where everyone invited had to participate creatively. It seemed the perfect way to get to know the women in my community, to see what they were doing, how we could support each other, and what inspiration came of it.

After I had my first show, some friends recommend that I (along with some other females) have a group show. It struck a cord, it reminded me of what I had wanted to do before. I think my affirmation was made through questions. Why don't we have a space of our own? How come there are no Chicana shows in San Anto? Why haven't all of the creative women I know come together to create a space absolutely for themselves? Why aren't the faces of the brown women of my community recognized more often the way they should be?

I have been a part of a few all female organizations, groups, and gatherings, and have learned a thing or two (valuable lessons).

December 19th will be the first show featuring works by 4 Chicanas of my new collective. I say "my" in terms of ours. We are all owners of this collective. We have been coming together, emailing, conversing, and creating something long over due, that reflect us as a new generation of Chicanas. I couldn't be prouder of what's happening, I can't wait to see what unfolds, and what the future holds for us. We are here as women of color, born and raised in San Anto, with culture values that ground us and bring us together, to support and inspire each other. We would like to assist in representing the strong, smart, and creative women of San Anto, because if we don't do it for ourselves, it probably won't get done. The three other women that I am working with are some cool ladies, they are great company, and they are the sort of creative inspiration that I have been searching to surround myself with.

This past week we took some photos that will be a part of our repertoire.

Our first show has a theme, and works will be produced by Ruth Buentello, Sarah Castillo, Kristin Gamez, and Mari Hernandez, in response to: The Quinceanera...

More details to come, I hope to see you December 19th.

(outtake)