Creating a Comprehensive Guide to Feminist Perspectives in the Universe

Sandra Vásquez de la Horra’s art explores the intricate connections between the natural world and the human experience, particularly focusing on feminine forms and their relationship with nature. Her exhibition, “The Awake Volcanoes” at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, features beeswax-dipped drawings that highlight erupting women and mystical landscapes, demonstrating a unique blend of personal history and universal truths. Raised under Augusto Pinochet’s regime in Chile and influenced by her Catholic upbringing and later practice of Santería, Vásquez de la Horra’s work transcends personal biography to delve into broader ecological and feminist themes.

The drawings depict female figures intertwined with mountains, animals, and celestial elements, emphasizing a symbiotic relationship with the earth. Works like “Volcánica (The Volcanic Woman)” and “Anillo de fuego (Ring of Fire)” illustrate women as integral parts of natural forces, not separate from them. The use of motifs such as volcanoes and fertility symbols reflects an ecofeminist perspective that underscores the interconnectedness of all life forms.

Vásquez de la Horra’s art also engages with political themes, integrating rallying texts that advocate for unity and resistance. Her work suggests that the liberation of any form—whether biological, ecological, or political—is interconnected. This exhibition is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles and resonances between the exploitation of nature and the subjugation of women, proposing that freedom in one realm impacts the others. The exhibition continues at ICA LA through March 1, 2026, and was organized by the Denver Art Museum.