Subject Area

Art, Art History/Criticism/Conservation, History, Humanities, Political Science and Government, Textile Fabrics

Abstract

This thesis encompasses the life of a young woman navigating life in Texas through various political and social barriers. My interdisciplinary practice analyzes the historical context of Mexicans in Texas from its Revolutionary period into current injustices. Through fiber, printmaking, and photography I create a visual diary to illustrate what the political has made personal. These works display the beauty of Tejano culture, but also the power struggles that threaten communities I care for, as well as my own existence that persists against far-right wing agendas.

Current politics and government leadership in Texas have inspired me to make artwork calling out ongoing xenophobia and the whitewashing of a state that has deep Mexican lineage and once belonged to my people despite the pressure to push us out and silence us. It is crucial for me to vocalize issues many Tejanos face today.

In a society plagued by capitalism, misogyny, xenophobia, and governmental overreach, I use photography, silkscreen prints, sewing, and hand embroidered work to combat harmful rhetoric and propaganda. I address my choices in materiality and how the topics such as immigration, labor, reproductive justice, and environmentalism have been addressed.

The body of work expresses the experiences I face as a Gen-Z Tejana woman living in the 21st century and in a country on the brink of a cultural collapse. Recollections of a Tejana Life recognizes Texas history’s role in shaping the state today in addition to emerging threats to Mexicans, women, and everyday Texans. My art affirms Tejanos/as belongingness in visual culture and historical narratives that make Texas vibrant, diverse, and a home worth saving.

Degree Date

5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.F.A.

Department

Division of Art

Advisor

Melanie Clemmons

Second Advisor

Frederico Câmara

Number of Pages

33

Format

.pdf

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License

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