Sister Alma Lopez


I stumbled across the work of the great Latina/Chicana Alma Lopez almost a year ago while still toiling over the details of how terryhowcott.com would look and feel. All of Alma Lopez's work is remarkable, but this one moved me to no end. That peacefulness of this Sister's left hand - poised for negotiation, but ready to defend if need be with her right . . .

Notice the pronounced detail in the peacemaking hand to the left, vs. that very distant appearance of the right even though they're inches apart.

Alma Lopez's story is equally compelling as her gifts - this strong Latina Sister who was catapulted to unwanted attention after putting forth her own unique artistic expression of her spirituality in her piece "Our Lady," (1999), and who was wildly denigrated and ostracized in the process.

As is the case with artist Renee Cox, and so many other challenging artists of our time and throughout history - a movement was afoot to have her artistry censured - literally removed from public view.

After all, her work reflects a message that is emphatic: "I am me," but also "I am me who has no natural interest in imagining the world with your ideals." For people who have trouble seeing the world without great walls, partitions, and controls this can pose a psychological nightmare.

I chose the piece by Alma Lopez at the thumbnail, reflecting a Latina's eyes, her thinking, and her vision.

Artistry is only authentic if it can keep oppressive forces at bay, particularly since art often is an expression of one's experience amid domination. Noone gets to share that window through which the artist imagines her work (as long as it doesn't threaten the well being of others).

Alma Lopez's work reflects her wide vision from spirituality to Latina-Latino Same Gender Loving relationships, and is found on book covers and murals throughout the Los Angeles area.

This piece in particular that I love so much is of that special woman throughout history that is perfectly prepared to protect and defend, be it her woman, her man her children or her people.

It is entitled "Coyolxauhqui Returns as Our Lady Disguised as La Virgen de Guadalupe to Defend the Rights of Las Chicanas," Acrylic on Canvas, 24" x 24", 2004


Reach out to Alma Lopez at Almalopez.net









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