Interview By Maia Poon
Art in all its forms is so essential for our emotional wellbeing, learning about others’ lives, and sharing our own stories. Especially now, with June 2020 being Pride Month, a pivotal moment for the Black Lives Matter movement, and in the midst of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the role of art is shifting but more important than ever. I had the opportunity to provide a platform for multidisciplinary artists and writers through online interviews, and they each had something unique to share. Keep creating!
Fernanda Armada Hernández
she/her
Photographer
@fernandaarmadah
Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico
1. Do you feel more or less connected to your art during social isolation?
I feel that the connection has changed; I have more freedom to experiment with my work because there is no pressure even though I am more limited in my resources. Also, I feel my style transforming and that I am finding my true voice, so of course I am feeling more connected to it.
2. Have you seen any noticeable changes in the subjects of your art?
Definitely. I have to work with what I have. Since I do photography there has to be a lot of improvising or trying techniques I haven't before in order to not be too repetitive with my subjects. There is a challenge in it, but this only makes it more fun.
3. Why is art important right now, with the pandemic and civil unrest around the world?
I believe art, in general, is transforming all around the world; it is not only something "aesthetically pleasing" or "beautiful" anymore, but it is also a form of protest, of wanting change and justice, showing discomfort (and with every right!). I feel the world is changing a lot right now, and art will change too and gain importance that only rises along with social revolutions or big changes. Art is portraying many previously “delicate” subjects and young artists are not afraid of tackling them and using them because they are our reality and we have to keep raising awareness of them.
4. If you are a member of the BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ how can art be used to share typically marginalized voices?
I feel art is an amazing way to share marginalized voices. We have to use any privilege we may have to make not only our voices but the ones of our community be heard. This may be through artistic storytelling of particular issues no one seems to notice. Artists’ voices matter and they are way more seen than we are aware of.