Bien Brutal
When people think of Puerto Rico, more often than not, the first thought that comes to mind is beautiful beaches and amazing food. While not incorrect, many elements within Puerto Rican culture and history are overlooked. For centuries, the people of Puerto Rico have been neglected, ignored, and pushed out of their homes at the hands of the United States government. The primary focus of these pieces are a “new” Puerto Rico told from the perspective of someone who has observed the maltreatment of the culture and peoples, while also recognizing the beauty, peace, vibrancy, and kindness present on the island. The purpose of this project is to allow viewers to experience Puerto Rico through my eyes, seeing what I see - a strong, transformative, and diligent community and people.
Through my journeys to Puerto Rico, I have been able to uncover pieces of myself and My culture that have been hidden from me. My sense of cultural awareness, self, and purpose have been heightened. In Puerto Rico there exists poverty, natural disasters, and the effects of colonialism. For decades, the peoples voices have been silenced but never their spirits. Puerto Ricans are some of the most selfless people I have ever met. While everyone has taken from us, we endlessly give of ourselves expecting nothing in return. I always questioned why I'm persistent, a warrior, and selfless but I’ve come to the conclusion that it simply runs in my blood.
