The library: Li(es)-bravery

Name: The library: Li(es)-bravery
Start: 2025-11-07T18:00:00-08:00
End: 2025-11-07T21:00:00-08:00
Location: Burien Community Center

Schedule

Fri Nov 07 2025 at 06:00 pm to 09:00 pm

UTC-08:00

Location

Burien Community Center | Burien, WA

A whimsical library scenography inside Frida Kahlo Casa Azul featuring a skeleton "Librarians and “Adelita Revolucionarias” Why is literacy important?
This installation is a visually striking and interactive backdrop that resembles a library bookshelf showcasing recently banned books.
Two skeleton models bring the installation to life: the "Librarian" roams the area holding books, while "Adelita," a tribute to the women soldiers of the Mexican Revolution, wears a traditional rebozo, long skirt, and embroidered blouse, with pencils strapped across her chest as a symbolic stand against ignorance. In an era where access to books is increasingly threatened, these figures embody the struggle for literacy, civil liberties, and identity.
This installation advocates for the freedom to read and express oneself, raise awareness about literacy emphasizing the transformative power of knowledge over censorship.
My experience as a teaching artist in libraries for many years has fueled my desire to translate these pressing issues, more than even before, into a visual narrative. Governments should empower our right to read and think freely—books provide depth, insight, and empowerment.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
A key interactive component invites visitors to write on colorful ribbons answering the question, "Why is literacy important?" These responses will remain on display for weeks after the event, serving as a collective testament to the value of reading.
Adelitas and Librarian, will interact with attendees, prompting discussions on banned books and the historical significance of literacy in the fight for freedom and knowledge. Informational bilingual materials will accompany the installation, ensuring accessibility to a diverse audience. This installation is set to be featured at the Burien Community Center as part of the Día de los Muertos Festival. This 100% Latina-led art installation is designed to be family-friendly, bilingual, and wheelchair-accessible, making it inclusive to all members of the community.