1. In Gonzalez's piece she discusses the artistic ideologies that Mesa-Bains uses in her artwork: "Femmage and rasquachismo are two expressions that represent the tactical activities of those who must "make do;* both term simply not only resourcefulness but also an aesthetically informed resistance to a situation of lack" (Gonzalez 5). To me, this is inspiring, not only because it connects to the fact that many Chicanas do face a situation of lack and have to make do with what they have, but also because it can inspire others to create art using the limited resources they have. How do you think artwork in styles like femmage, rasquachismo, and ultimately, Mesa-Bains' domesticana can help borderland communities and activism?
2. The practice of altar-making helps Chicanas connect to their culture and heritage. One of its central messages is about the importance of human life and that even when you're dead, you don't truly die. You only truly die when you're forgotten (Grandparkla, 2). It seems like a message like this can invoke empathy and admiration in a people that holds love, family, and community so closely. How can this message of love and humanity affect real change in the way the struggle of oppressed peoples, particularly Chicanas in the U.S. is perceived?
3. Ofelia Esparza is an amazing woman who has achieved so much, one of my favorite quotes from her about Día de los Muertos and altar-making is: "The most important thing is the meaning, the spirituality, and the respect and the heart that you have for it. That's the most important thing" (Smithsonian video, 22:00). How can altar-making, something purely about love for and honoring and remembering loved ones and ancestors, create stronger and more cohesive Chicana/o communities in the borderlands as well as benefit their struggles for social change?
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