La Virgen de Guadalupe a

la Placita,Downtown

LAJennifer Liu

The mural

Depiction

• The Virgin Mary (surrounded by a halo) accepts an offering of marigolds from a man, who appears to serve as a representation of the indigenous peoples of Mexico.

Reina y Emperatriz

• The words above Virgin Mary say “Reina de Mexico y Emperatriz de America,” translated as “Queen of Mexico and Empress of America,” fitting since the flags of both countries flank the central figure.

The altar

• The altar provides a place of public worship. Rather than go inside the church, passersby can contemplate the scene or use the space.

I am not here. Who is your mother?

Question

• The phrase “I am not here. Who is your mother?” is a direct reference to the identity questioned by those who live in the ‘borderlands.’ The dual nature of this identity conflict is the central theme explained by the mural.

• The flags of other South American countries follow the line of the rainbow in the background, creating a sense of harmony, a common ground that people from these nations have to undergo.

• The Mexican flag is dominant in the foreground as it serves as the gateway to America.

A man praying

• I don't know who created the mural, or who sponsored it (perhaps the church or the city council), but it serves as a divine reminder of the narratives that remain strong amidst the monolithic culture in the U.S.

• I saw a man praying alongside his family at the foot of the altar, evidence that faith is still a significant part of the culture.

Audience

• Since the mural is on the side of the church facing the street, the audience is varied. While I was there, there were a lot of homeless people in the space right before the altar.

• The mural is meant to be seen; the church is adjacent to the busy Olvera street market and the park. It definitely caught my eye.

Last thoughts

• No signature or date of completion; The anonymity of the artist may actually be a good thing

• Instead of signage, the artist allows his/her work to be more unified/representative of the people, a collective experience for both the artist and the audience.

Fin~