Daniel Aros-Aguilar
In the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Muxes are recognized queer members of the community. Their pre-colonial heritage dates back in Zapotec history. On a recent trip to Oaxaca, I reached out to fellow artists and active community members to celebrate their roots and identity as gender non-conforming folk.
Misogyny has long plagued the machismo culture of Latin America. Mexico, Colombia, and Honduras have held some of the highest cases of femicide, particularly towards women of indigenous and African descent. I began by photographing three gender-non-conforming artists in my style of storytelling. Mario, Xaneri, and Amitai have transcended the traditions bestowed on them for a fulfilling life professionally without compromising their customs. For this project, I find influence in the visuals of Helmut Newton's "World Without Men" and the work of great contemporary fashion photographers of the female gaze whom I know personally. I intend to exalt the strength and complexity of Muxes and other queer folks of indigenous descent.
