Xandra Ibarra, or at times known as La Chica Boom, has produced a wide variety of art, ranging from abstract sculptures and photos to videos on sexual empowerment and freedom. Her work has been seen as controversial to some, and one of her videos has even been taken down on account of “obscene content.” Although some of her work is more provocative, it can be seen as empowering and unique. She aims to give a voice, or freedom of voice and expression, to the Chicanx community. Her art has a strong cultural value that people may overlook at first glance. By doing some research, I have found that many Chicanx citizens have thanked her for her work, and say it has helped to allow them to express themselves more freely (Sleek Mag- https://www.sleek-mag.com/article/censorship-performance-queer-artist-xandra-ibarra-means-latinx-artists-free-expression-usa/).
One piece of her work that caught my eye is titled “THANK YOU, IT’S VERSAYCE.” At first glance, you do not really know what is standing before you. A mix of heels, props, tools, hair, lights, hooks, and ropes are intertwined and hung from the ceiling. On her website, she reveals this piece “draw[s] on camp expressions of sex and sexuality” (Ibarra). The stripper heels and wigs stand out, and the clashing colors are almost aesthetically pleasing. The fact that she has made art from objects that would be deemed “sexual” in society creates a certain sense of freedom and power. It almost seems as if she is taking power of sexuality without shame, and encouraging others to do the same. This art is inspired by the quote by Nomi, the ingenue stripper in the movie Showgirls. I think it is somewhat fitting that she drew inspiration from this movie, as it soon became a scandal for its nudity and provocative tone. Through this piece, she is speaking on how one’s sexuality shouldn’t be something that is hidden, but should be something freeing, unique, and unapologetic, even if it isn’t fully accepted by others.
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