One thing I would like to reflect on is being able to have a professor that gives quality to the class as she was able to live through and play a major role in the work of artivism for Chicanx people. I did not know really anything about Chicanx art and artists before taking this class. I had taken Chicano 10B which introduced me to the idea of art and activism through different art forms in our history, but nothing specific like in this class.
I felt empowered when I completed the reading talking about Professor Lopez and her role in the movement. She took so much hate in order to break down barriers for Chicana women. Her image of La virgen in a bikini was so powerful. The hate she received from people (mostly angry men) went on to prove more of her point that women are controlled by men. The men had more of a problem with what La Virgen was wearing compared to women. It proved that men have so much control over women in even what they wear when it has nothing to do with them. I really enjoyed the week where we completed that reading because it opened up my eyes to so many things I had not learned before. I felt so grateful to have a professor who in my eyes did so much for Chicanx women. She helped us feel empowered to embrace our spirituality and sexuality. I am happy I was able to take this course and learn more about my spirituality as well.
I also enjoyed reading about Professor Alma Lopez and how she handled the backlash. She is definitely confident in the importance of her work, and pays no mind to ignorant criticisms . I also learned that the Virgin Mary, as a symbol, can be used as a way to subjugate women to unrealistic puritanical standards that don't do much other than oppress.
ReplyDeleteHey Adrianna,
ReplyDeleteI totally agree about being able to take this course with Professor Lopez, and I truly don't feel like it would've been the same if another professor had taught this class. Not only was it empowering to read about her work, but I also felt that learning from a working Chicana artist brought in perspectives to the class about what the needs of Chicana artists are now (such as online visibility).