Nadia Bautista

"A Near End" (Artist Statement)

We can think of society as a cell, where the core is white hegemony, while outside lies the rest of the world.

Any gender, class, skin color, or body type that was not part of the core has been indoctrinated and systematized for a long time—expelled to the periphery and forced to walk on the margins, silenced and stigmatized.

With the rise of feminism (both intersectional and transfeminist), people began to reflect on the differences in oppression and privilege according to identity. This led many to find the courage to raise their voices and begin a fight that still has no near end.

Marginalized identities started to slowly unmask a deeper system of oppression, one that touches not only on fashion and advertising but also on broader social, political, and economic problems. Then the question arises: Why do stereotypes still persist as the years go by?

Stereotypes serve as instruments of oppression. A society that cannot find its place or see itself reflected in anything is a sad, unhappy, and easily controlled society. It becomes a society that doesn’t demand what it’s owed. Instead, it consumes whatever is offered to it in an attempt to access the image being sold—ultimately serving the patriarchy-capitalism binomial.

The union of those on the margins has exposed this and begun to fracture the core, instilling fear. Inclusive language, bodily autonomy, legal abortion, and new forms of relationships are just some of the changes taking shape—changes that many still resist.

But at what cost? Continuing to uphold and perpetuate outdated systems has led us nowhere good, quite the opposite. We must abolish everything that insists on silencing voices.

It is time to reconsider the role each person will play in response to this shift. Faced with structures that can no longer be sustained, and a change that forces us to confront the ravages of savage capitalism—capitalism that has not only ruined society collectively but also damaged the Earth itself.

We must reclaim the bodily autonomy stolen from us centuries ago. We must shout that we will not conform, and we must unite—because resistance exists, and it is making progress.

To ensure the best experience for all of our guests and to ensure their safety, we have implemented the following measures at all of our future events:

1.) RSVP to secure your spot at our events. Space is limited. Only one invitation under the same name is allowed. If there are two, one of them will be deleted. If you have made a reservation but you will not be able to attend the event, please cancel your reservation 24 hours in advance.

2.) Dress Code: Smart Casual/Cocktail Attire

3.) Backpacks and large bags are not allowed.

4.) No food or beverages allowed

5.) Pets are not allowed.

6.) Unfortunately, there are no elevators on the premises. Therefore, accessibility to attend concerts or movie events on the upper floors may not be possible for everyone at this time.

7.) Note that this event will be held at the second floor and there is not elevator service.

8.) Guests must abide by the house rules to participate in the event.

9.) The Consulate may refuse to allow -or permit to remain- in the Consulate facilities any person who causes a disturbance of any kind or who is behaving in a objectionable manner.

Hoping you will be able to attend.

Best regards,

Argentine Consulate

Host or Publisher Consulate General of Argentina in New York