Carmen Lomas Garza

The moon is a critical figure for American innovation, freedom, and conquest. When man landed on the moon it was noted as a giant leap for mankind. Space holds a glimmer of hope for many, encompassing the future, new frontiers, and a reminder technological advances. But the fiction of white superiority would have you believe that only Anglo originating humans can formulate the means to conquer space. Garza challenges that idea with a tender tribute to a man who pushed boundaries for Latino performers. The homage titled, Tito’s Gig on the Moon, presents Tito Puente relocated to the moon with his band and a popular jazz club, Birdland. People are dancing, there is joy everywhere and an essence of Latino culture is captivated. This work is a little different from the other works Garza has done; however, it isn’t just an ending to her series, it’s a launch into the future. This work is the ultimate proclamation that Latinos are here, and they’ll continue to evolve. Being on the moon is a signifier that Latinos cannot be suppressed into one place, but rather they will grow and expand into new frontiers. Like all of her work, there isn’t one answer in this dialogue. The work is meant to produce several ideas that the viewer has to answer in their own way. The piece was meant to “remind viewers of the joy that Puente’s music brought to many lives” but it also symbolizes Latino accomplishments and longevity.