I was inspired to capture this photo because of the dresses' beautiful colors and symbolism.
The Quinceañera dress plays a massive role in the coming of age celebration. The dresses are extravagant and huge, signifying the transition into adulthood.
The Quinceañera dress plays a massive role in the coming of age celebration. The dresses are extravagant and huge, signifying the transition into adulthood.
In the photos, each dress, the yellow, white, red, blue, and pink ballgowns represent the essence of its wearer, matching her personality.
When I was a little boy, I'd often fantasize about wearing one of these dresses. Galavanting the space, I'd showcase my form through the fabulousness of my dress. The fantasy, torn apart, I conformed and was obedient to my Mexican Americanness's heteronormal and often machismo social constructs.
At this time in my life, I could have celebrated two quinceaneras. One at 15, likely wearing a pink or magenta dress and now sporting a deep red. Still, I likely wouldn't have a natural and normal celebration. Still, when I look at these dresses, I smile. I'm reminded of how far I've come and to keep looking forward into my adulthood, celebrating in other colorful meaningful ways that I can.
Wonderful photos and ideas in terms of color and celebration. Please try to connect more to light in the future. We should talk about Brow=n Bag Theatre Company - a Latinx theatre company on campus that I started in 2011 - it is a great way to find Familia while you are at UCI :)
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