the things we take (and the things we didn’t)
2024
wooden box, 4 artworks, relief print, sticker, screws, glue, packing paper
7.8 x 7.8 x 4in.

“I did not know the last time I visited Venezuela would be the last (at least for the foreseeable future). This set of books is inspired by what one is able to take and what one is forced to leave behind. These books explore the political crisis in Venezuela, diasporic grief, and religion through personal narratives and poems. Thank you to Bel Andrade for fabricating the boxes.”

1. un beso a los míos
2024
screenprint, inkjet print, paper, PVA, thread
~5.5 x 3 x 3in.

“My aunt passed away due to factors related to the crisis in Venezuela. Due to the inflation in Venezuela, I could not afford to go to her funeral. This piece serves as a memorial that also addresses the political/economic factors that led to her death. The text is in collaboration with my mother, who wrote it shortly after her sister’s death. Gracias Ma. Thank you to Audrey McKenzie for your help in the printing of this book.”

2. mano tengo fe
2024
typewriter on envelope, key, metal stamped keychain
2.25 x 3.5 in.

““Mano tengo fe” is a saying used in reference to the Venezuelan soccer team (which is known for being kinda bad). mano tengo fe (bro, i have faith) embodies the resilient nature of Venezuelan faith despite seemingly insurmountable odds. Whether it be making it to the world cup or recovering from a political/economic crisis, Venezuelans have continued to hold an unshakable hope. This particular iteration of that hope is inspired by a friend’s father, who lived out of his suitcase for months after fleeing Venezuela (just in case things got better).”

3. to pray as a faggot
2024
coffee and tea stained paper, ink, PVA, thread, muslin bag, relief print
4 x 6 in.

“Venezuela (as other countries in Latin America) has a huge Catholic influence, which often serves as the guise for homophobic and transphobic rhetoric. Ironically, Catholicism has also fueled a lot of traditions that remind me of home. This piece explores the inner turmoil of finding space for myself within these traditions, while acknowledging the role of religion in the perpetuation of homophobia and transphobia. The text for this work is handwritten by my mother, the person who taught me how to pray. Gracias Ma”

4. i built a home just for us i
2024
paper, PVA, LED candle
3.5 x 3.5 x 4.6 in. [7×4.6 in. flat]

“Inspired by alebrijes and the use of candles in catholic mourning practices, this work serves as a votive for an altar. I originally began this piece by trying to recreate the facade of my family’s home in Barquisimeto, but the memory has gotten foggy and i just kept creating a very generic house. This piece serves as a reminder that the warmth inside is what was important, while mourning those that now only live in my memory.”