Reflection on Reina De Belleza

By Araceli Ortiz Vasquez

This poem is a reflection of my experience with the art piece Reina De Belleza by Lilliam Nieves.

when I first approached, I didn't think much of it

but at a glance she conveys complexity

seeing her portrait reigning the world, with a drill as her weapon

I definitely felt

power.

strength.

her.

taking a closer look

I saw the distinct carving that created the portrait as a whole

but the carving marks by themselves resonated as delicate and formidable

She depicts herself on top of the world,

with a drill as her weapon

she addresses the differences in power

in both this world and her own

not to be her intended message

the different ways she holds power

she who finds herself in these positions

where she means power

It manifests into influence

impact

on an individual

or issue

she stands over the world

with a drill as her weapon