Cultural Cousins, installation view (photo by Anthony Jalandoni, courtesy ChaShaMa)
In the 16th century, the Spanish Empire was known as the most powerful empire in the world. It extended throughout the Americas and throughout the Philippine archipelago in Asia. Spanish colonialism has had a lasting influence on its subjects shaping traditions, values, language, food, fashion, and beliefs. Latinx and Filipinx individuals share a cultural kinship rooted in colonialism that extends past the history of this mutual Western imperial power and the geographic location of their homeland.
Cultural Cousins situates 10 artists of Latinx and Filipinx descent, to lay out their personal histories alongside one another in a space decorated to resemble a living room, establishing the kinship and intimacy of a family. This cultural exchange challenges audiences to reconsider ethnic identity outside of race.
The show features elements of photography, painting, mixed media, and sculpture, which contribute to the navigation of cultural identity and personal histories. These artists represent a small fragment of a myriad of experiences and narratives of the Latinx and Filipinx diaspora.
On July 11, an artist talk will be held at ChaShaMa gallery, co-moderated by the exhibition’s curator Jeanne F. Jalandoni with artist Genesis Valencia. “The goal of the talk is to dissolve racial stereotypes through tracing our cultural heritages and finding connections with one another,” Jalandoni told Hyperallergic in an email. “All the artists draw inspiration from their personal narratives, family intimacy, bicultural and biracial identities in their work, and they will share how their work responds to the other pieces in the show and the theme,” she added.
The artists participating in the talk are Max Sarmiento, Karl Orozco, Manuela Gonzalez, Jeannette Rodriguez-Piñeda, Emely Francesca Perez, Maria Liebana, and Donnabelle Casis.
When: Thursday, July 11, 6:30pm
Where: ChaShaMa (320 West 23rd Street, New York, NY)
More info on Eventbrite.
