Shifra Goldman Blog Post

The short essay "The Iconography of Chicano Self Determination: Race, Ethnicity, and Class", emphasizes on the background of Chicana individuals and the oppression they faced. It also demonstrates how Chicana artists tried so hard to break away from their Indian heritage so that they would not be solely judged on their background. It is safe to say one of the main issues at hand were race and ethnicity. The reason for this is because there was an inferiority complex in regards to "Mexicans"-- as they were considered lower than those who were not affiliated with a European background whatsoever. This mural "untitled" is painted by Antonio Bernal, it shows a lineage of individuals that represent indigenous roots whereas those who are considered lighter skin are not stressed at all. This mural is unique because it includes an image of a woman next to about seven men. The woman being presented adds a sense of hope in my opinion since it was created during a period of male-dominated art.


Yolanda M. Lopez & Self Determination:
When I hear self determination when related to aspects of Chicana culture and art. The image of the artist Yolanda Lopez as the Virgin of Guadalupe comes into mind. This portrait represents self determination in matters of race, ethnicity, and class because it shows that she is powerful. It signifies that there is nothing strong enough to make her feel oppressed as she is running forward to break the sigma that is surrounded by her heritage.