Today we’d like to introduce you to Irregular Girl.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I moved to the States when I was seven. I think my identity as an immigrant was really formative; I othered myself and was othered by classmates for my cultural differences. I think my practice, now primarily drag, has been really impacted by this. I’ve always felt as though I didn’t quite fit in, isolated in a way. My answer to this is the irreverent work that I make.
Please tell us about your art.
For a long time, much of my practice was fibers – and text-based, short and pithy bursts that replicated my anxieties towards my gender. That was all well and good, but I think that I’ve slowly realized that there’s a responsibility we have as queer people, as trans people, to remain and encourage hope within our community. It’s a lot more fun to laugh. My practice recently shifted towards works that are sarcastic, that overshare, that is funny or that otherwise present a trans woman, galvanized and free of pain, in complete euphoria. I’m making my work because I think that queerness is a promise and one that I believe in.
What do you think about conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
Art’s cool! I’ve made so many friends at house shows, apartment galleries, and just through showing work around the city, and a ton, of course, through drag. I think it really depends – I think that I’ve stopped taking myself so seriously, and remembered that I’m making art for myself and my kin. When you remember you don’t have to impress anyone (because that’s not your job), you can free yourself to be more genuine in your practice. That’s the fun part, and where the best work is made from. I think Chicago’s art scene is fabulous. I think we can all support each other more by showing up to one another’s events, buying a print, etc., etc. It’s really all about giving back.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My 3D and performance work can be found at luismejico.com, but I’d love for you to come to a drag show. I’m on Instagram as @imirregulargirl, and that’s the best way to know where I’ll be performing /hosting /etc. As for supporting the work, give me a follow, come to a show, get a drink, tip your bartender, and have a good time. And tip me, duh.
Contact Info:
- Website: luismejico.com
- Email: luis@luismejico.com
- Instagram: imirregulargirl
Image Credit:
Brick Kyle, Chamilla Foxx
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