The work of Xandra Ibarra is at first admittedly shocking to me, as I perused her vast collection of works on her website though, there was something of a familiarity that I felt. This in your face, meant to be thought provoking, abstract and unique work reminded me of many artists I have seen from my hometown. I am from Oakland, where Ibarra has resided for much of her artistic life, and you can really see the spirit of the city in this work. Her explorations of sexuality, gender, her use of sculpture, her openness is something truly unique to the bay area, being brought up there I'm sure has a lot to do with the freedom she feels to really push the boundaries of convention with her work. Besides that she is an activist at her core, this too is instilled in Oakland youth, find yourself a cause, and get organizing for change.  Nevertheless, and not that it matters but I do find most of her work incredibly unpleasant, probably a personal choice by the artist, but all aside I do not like this art. I don’t find any useful meaning in the penis sculptures with a bunch of nails in them, pierced nipples in strange configurations or the period blood use, which to me in this century is rather an overdone concept. And I study art, it’s my major. These are not the kind of pieces I look deeply into, as within myself I believe art is more about beauty and skill than politics and messaging. It is a stark contrast to the works of Lomas Garza from last week who I really enjoyed. Because her work was political, but not an eyesore, and doesn't have to shock us to catch the eye. All that said I did enjoy the views from her mail slot in quarantine, it reminded me of home, and the strange year that passed.