Bibliomancy Zine by Julia Arredondo
This piece was featured in the May 2024 issue of The Fore Edge, a quarterly newsletter from MCBA that highlights new artist’s books and zines for collections, universities, and libraries. If you are interested in receiving this newsletter, there is a sign up available here. Past featured pieces can be viewed here.
“In my artistic practice, I immerse myself in the rich tapestry of botánica culture and the syncretic spirituality of my home in South Texas. Drawing from the traditions of Latine and Afro-Latinx communities, I explore the intersection of ritual, commerce, and community within these spiritual storefronts. These spaces, blending the material and the metaphysical, serve as vital hubs outside conventional systems of faith, medicine, and family structure.
My inquiry delves into the visual and conceptual parallels between retail environments and sacred spaces. Through my background in retail and marketing, I've discerned how visual language functions in both realms, particularly in the construction of altars and displays designed to evoke desire and fulfillment. This exploration has led me to coin the term "OCCULT AMERICANA," a genre of artwork centered on nondenominational altarscapes that evoke the spiritual dimension inherent in everyday objects.
By incorporating the descriptor "Americana," I delve into the historical nexus where consumer culture intersects with mystical practices, illuminating the lineage of empowerment and commerce in the United States. This inquiry is grounded in relational aesthetics, as my work seeks to foster communal engagement and dialogue around the intersections of spirituality, consumerism, and cultural identity.” -Julia Arredondo
8.25” x 5.25”
*Consignment item. Not eligible for 10% membership discount. All consignment purchases are final and non-refundable once shipped.
This piece was featured in the May 2024 issue of The Fore Edge, a quarterly newsletter from MCBA that highlights new artist’s books and zines for collections, universities, and libraries. If you are interested in receiving this newsletter, there is a sign up available here. Past featured pieces can be viewed here.
“In my artistic practice, I immerse myself in the rich tapestry of botánica culture and the syncretic spirituality of my home in South Texas. Drawing from the traditions of Latine and Afro-Latinx communities, I explore the intersection of ritual, commerce, and community within these spiritual storefronts. These spaces, blending the material and the metaphysical, serve as vital hubs outside conventional systems of faith, medicine, and family structure.
My inquiry delves into the visual and conceptual parallels between retail environments and sacred spaces. Through my background in retail and marketing, I've discerned how visual language functions in both realms, particularly in the construction of altars and displays designed to evoke desire and fulfillment. This exploration has led me to coin the term "OCCULT AMERICANA," a genre of artwork centered on nondenominational altarscapes that evoke the spiritual dimension inherent in everyday objects.
By incorporating the descriptor "Americana," I delve into the historical nexus where consumer culture intersects with mystical practices, illuminating the lineage of empowerment and commerce in the United States. This inquiry is grounded in relational aesthetics, as my work seeks to foster communal engagement and dialogue around the intersections of spirituality, consumerism, and cultural identity.” -Julia Arredondo
8.25” x 5.25”
*Consignment item. Not eligible for 10% membership discount. All consignment purchases are final and non-refundable once shipped.
This piece was featured in the May 2024 issue of The Fore Edge, a quarterly newsletter from MCBA that highlights new artist’s books and zines for collections, universities, and libraries. If you are interested in receiving this newsletter, there is a sign up available here. Past featured pieces can be viewed here.
“In my artistic practice, I immerse myself in the rich tapestry of botánica culture and the syncretic spirituality of my home in South Texas. Drawing from the traditions of Latine and Afro-Latinx communities, I explore the intersection of ritual, commerce, and community within these spiritual storefronts. These spaces, blending the material and the metaphysical, serve as vital hubs outside conventional systems of faith, medicine, and family structure.
My inquiry delves into the visual and conceptual parallels between retail environments and sacred spaces. Through my background in retail and marketing, I've discerned how visual language functions in both realms, particularly in the construction of altars and displays designed to evoke desire and fulfillment. This exploration has led me to coin the term "OCCULT AMERICANA," a genre of artwork centered on nondenominational altarscapes that evoke the spiritual dimension inherent in everyday objects.
By incorporating the descriptor "Americana," I delve into the historical nexus where consumer culture intersects with mystical practices, illuminating the lineage of empowerment and commerce in the United States. This inquiry is grounded in relational aesthetics, as my work seeks to foster communal engagement and dialogue around the intersections of spirituality, consumerism, and cultural identity.” -Julia Arredondo
8.25” x 5.25”
*Consignment item. Not eligible for 10% membership discount. All consignment purchases are final and non-refundable once shipped.
Julia Arredondo (she/her/ella) is an art entrepreneur who recently finished her MFA at Columbia College Chicago. Originally from Corpus Christi, TX, Julia is heavily influenced by the small, family-based businesses she grew up around. Formally trained in printmaking and specializing in artistic forms of independent publishing, Julia founded Vice Versa Press and Curandera Press as her entrepreneurial debuts. Julia recently launched media entities, QTVC Live! and COVIDtv, and is anticipating a second season of QTVC Live! programming.
JuliaArredondo.com | @Future_Juju
