Por Que Soy Nopal/Because I am Nopal

Video Performance at City Hall Toronto, 21 sec.

The Nopal is an important cactus in Mexico, dating its relevance from prehispanic times. It has been represented in the Mexica/Aztec culture but also in the Mexican coat of arms. This sacred cactus represents the land and is an important part of the Mexican gastronomy. But also is can be use as a symbol of racism like the slur "Nopal en al frente" or Nopal on the forehead. This slur refers to not have facial european characteristics. Reclaiming the slur I use it to show how proud I am of my heritage as a Mexican. The sculptures symbolize my identity as a Mexican immigrant and the abundant land where I come from. This performance was created at City Hall Toronto, in which I convey my identity as non-binary and heritage as a Mexican.

  • Year2021
  • Video Sources Youtube

Raymond, I don't think I'm in Mexico anymore

Study of image narrative about my life in video, 10:47 mins.

"Raymond, I don't think I'm in Mexico anymore" includes voice-over of the artist. Ze documented the experience of installing an altar in a Cemetery and the conversation with hirself. The artist talks about hir experiences immigrating to Canada, living with hir friend, reflecting about hir life and the experiences in Mexico and Canada. This installation/performance explores the idea of the costume of Día de Los Muertos that traditionally happens in Mexico but installed in a new setting. The struggle that in hir mind is happening after living 15 years in Canada. The video explores how the culture is changing hir and affecting hir perception of who ze is. As a tradition in Mexico, paying tribute to loved ones that passed away in the cemetery is important, not only to show the world that we haven’t forgotten about them but as a constant reminder that is part of life that doesn’t end here, in this world. This piece is not only telling the relationship that Luis had with hir friend Raymond, but also the emotional journey that many times ze had with the dead-ending in a cemetery.

  • Year2020
  • Video Sources Youtube

Live

Study of image narrative about my life in video, 03:40 mins.

"Live" video art explores how my life has been a roller coaster. I use the narrative to create a personal approach to the family dynamics explore within the video. The use of symmetrical composition by dividing the screen in the middle and overlaying different media is used in the film to signify the change of time. The use of a black background comes from my signature style. The use of photography, film and sound is to emulate the passage of time and reflect the different stages in life and emotions. The film explores that life is full of moments that sometimes perfectly match the ups and downs that are part of my life.

  • Year2018
  • Video Sources Youtube

Encuentros/Encounters

Abstract Video Art 02:02 mins.

"Encuentros/Encounters" explores the theme of connectivity and highlights the importance of nature. In this time, when the pandemic is making us examine what is happening with our planet, it is important to reflect on the connections within the natural world. Two organic kaleidoscopic worlds encounter each other, creating beautiful connections for the spectator. The symmetrical composition is reflected by its counterpart mirrored upside-down and joined in the middle of the screen. A sense of surreality permeates through different scenes and emotions. Two worlds encounter a third, which is the world of the spectator. The hypnotic sounds and the music drowns you deeper and deeper until the end when the spell breaks.

  • Year2018
  • Video Sources Youtube

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