Tex Mex

While working at a certain gallery, the assistant museum coordinator had an idea: how about doing a Tex-Mex inspired exhibit, and calling it "Tex-Mex"? Well, immediately, I think everyone was a little bewildered as to how cuisine tied into an upcoming art show. Well, she explained that her idea was to recruit Texan artists who were of Mexican descent to display their art in the exhibit, and that the opening reception could have margaritas, nachos, and other Tex-Mex dishes. At this point in the conversation, I want to give her props for deciding to do an exhibit that highlights diversity, but at the same time feel the title and theme are exploitive in nature, even though her intent is cutesiness: it seems almost demeaning. Then comes the real zinger.





"Maybe we can go down to towns on the border and see what kind of artists there are. They will probably be thrilled at the opportunity..."

What?!!??!

As if to insinuate that all Mexican-Americans in Texas live on the border, or that they all are poor and would jump through hoops for a couple of pesos... Unbelievable...I responded that I have a friend who is a sculptor, makes his own glazes, does really beautiful work, is partially of Mexican descent,and she asked me his name. When I told her the Irish last name, she asked what he looks like. I told her he has blond hair, at which point she informed me, "no, he needs to look Mexican."

I think everyone in the meeting was shocked, as she seemed completely oblivious to how she sounded. The art director changed the subject, and we all agreed to go with a different theme.