Nahum B. Zenil
During the mid-1970s, Zenil focused on himself as his subject, creating self-portraits that examine not only autobiographical concerns, but also scrutinize the roles of race and culture within Mexican society. He redefines the family, examines the role of the Catholic Church and addresses traditional attitudes toward marginalized groups, such as the position of women, mestizos and homosexuals within contemporary Latin American life. In Mujer barbada, Zenil places himself in the role of “woman”, “mother” and “provider of life” aligned with the view of the mestizo child as Mexico. Often compared to Frida Kahlo’s cathartic self-portraits, aching for motherhood while championing Mexican Nationalism, Zenil’s work demonstrates a contemporary reversal of gender roles.
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