María Antonia Villaseñor-Marchal

Artist Statement:

As a Latina trans woman of Indigenous heritage, I feel that my reality is constantly in flux, and dreaming is always necessary, particularly in today's political and social climate. Growing up, I would escape into the fantastical worlds of my imagination to cope with what was confusing, isolating, and traumatic. Through the decolonization of craft techniques, the use of found objects, and the incorporation of ethically sourced natural fibers indigenous to the Western Hemisphere, I continue to engage with my childhood fantasy worlds through soft sculpture, weaving, fiber painting, textile installations, drawing, and collage. My childhood fantasies helped me to survive. 

My work transports viewers and wearers into their unique fantasy worlds through the use of found, unconventional, and manipulated materials — mainly fully felted custom textiles and embellishments I create using found materials. Through my work, I challenge viewers to consider issues of cultural, social, spiritual, ecological, and political importance, and I hope to help them cope with their real lives regardless of perceived differences. Despite the fantastical nature of my work(s), I focus on using animal protein fibers (alpaca, bison, and wool) and crafting techniques traditionally assigned to women and marginalized populations throughout history. These processes ground the work firmly in the artistic and social contexts of my own life and connect me to my ancestors.