While here for another 2 weeks, here is what we discovered in this wonderful city of Oaxaca, Mexico, (To be continued next week)
Both ethnically and linguistically diverse – there’s a profusion of captivating attributes that encompass the state of Oaxaca. In this oasis of bougainvillea, calendas and textiles, it’s tempting to romanticize this region; however, these chromatic wonders are interwoven with complex challenges. Of these, a range of social and political issues are illustrated through the proliferation of local street art. This collective practice pushes for public interaction, discourse and community organization via a series of alluring visuals.
The contemporary street art movement evolved from muralism – a creative era that emerged after the Mexican Revolution. After the rebellion ended, public art was commissioned by the government in order to unify a fractured society through a focus on nationalism. These efforts strengthened cultural identifiers while also speaking to a wider population, including those who couldn’t read or write.
While Oaxaca boasts a plethora of cultural riches and indigenous heritage, it’s also one of the most economically challenged states. The walls of the city serve as a canvas to illustrate both the cultural pride and ongoing struggles of local communities. Classism, inequality, corruption, and the crisis of gender-based violence and machismo are common themes. Pieces are also created to denounce crimes against political and environmental activists who risk their lives to protect human rights and natural resources.
Local street artists employ a range of techniques and materials that fit their ideologies. The Revolutionary Union of Art Workers (URTARTE) use wood block prints that are applied to biodegradable rice paper with a traditional press. Multiple copies are made and quickly applied to structures using wheat paste. This allows for an application that doesn’t damage historic buildings. As politically charged pieces are removed by the city, additional prints can swiftly take their place.
Lapiztola is a collective that creates vibrant, layered works with stencils and paint. Their graphics are typically focused on the indigenous identity of Oaxaca. Images of corn are included in order to show respect for the local domestication of this food source. The paliacate is also present in their designs – a bandana that’s associated with the strength and resistance of the Zapatista revolutionary movement.
As with much of the art world, Mexican creativity is largely offered from a patriarchal viewpoint; however, there’s a growing movement of female street artists and printmakers in Oaxaca.
Oaxaca is an undeniable wonder that’s replete with compelling traditions and history. It’s also a convoluted entanglement of ongoing political clashes, bloqueos, inequity and economic disparity. The global catastrophe of gentrification is also a reality for locals. The resulting tensions are reflected in Oaxacan street art.
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