photographic journal volume 20 num . 1
Contents
E d i t o r i a l E s s a y
Living Latina :
The Bronx Women ’ s Photo Collective
Introduction 2 – 3
Rhynna M . Santos 4 – 11
Sandra Ayala 12 – 17
Lizzy Alejandro 18 – 23
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Nueva Luz is made possible through the National Endowment for the Arts , the New York State Council on the Arts , the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs , Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center , private contributors , members , and subscribers .
This issue of Nueva Luz is a departure from our previously curated publications . The values that En Foco treasures with great pride are a commitment to quality , professionalism , cultural equity , and community . These values will not be compromised instead they will be forcefully asserted . What will be emphasized in future issues will be lack of cultural equity and access to funding resources for artists , arts organizations , and community groups of color . At the same time , we want to document photography initiatives organized by community-based collectives and informal groups that reflect contemporary values not always represented in the mainstream art scene .
One such voice that burst onto the scene is the recently formed Bronx Women ’ s Photo Collective by Rhynna M . Santos , Sandra Ayala , and Lizzy Alejandro . Their curated exhibition , Living Latina at Lincoln Hospital in the South Bronx reflected the voices of these Puerto Rican women photographers as they interpreted their respective cultural values , communities , and personal visions . Rhynna M . Santos ’ sensitive portrayal of Puerto Rican Muslim women defies the usual cultural stereotype ; whereas Sandra Ayala ’ s reimagined images of legendary Latina performing artists who have inspired young women ; and Lizzy Alejandro documents women who have chosen non-traditional roles . These are voices that are rarely heard beyond the confines of their homes and neighborhoods . The Living Latina exhibition is a testimonial to these three Puerto Rican photographers and the vision they share with the public .
Rhynna M . Santos
Within the context of the United States invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan , it fueled the rise of radical Islamic fundamentalism throughout the Middle East and its spread to the United States . The excesses of these radical fundamentalists has fueled widespread Islamic-phobia against the law-abiding members of our communities .
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