Illinois College Contemporary Art Gallery

Cassie M.: What are the intentions behind the work that you create?

 

Nikki Luna: My intention in every work is to confront the viewer with the realities that women face. Throughout history to this day, we continue our fights for our place in society. Women's rights are still not recognized in issues of violence, equal pay, etc. I want those who see my work to ask themselves; where do I stand on these issues?

 

CM: What are some of your other goals as a creator?

 

NL: My work delves into women's issues. I come from a developing country, [Milan] where the majority of our population come from a marginalized sector. I would like to address their struggles through my art. When you are disenfranchised, marginalized, or dispossessed, you cannot imagine the burden that women go through, when their opportunities in life are limited. I want more people and women to see that we, as women, do parallel some silent struggles.

 

CM: At what point in your career did you begin to identify as a feminist, and how has that impacted your work?

 

NL: I came from a patriarchal home, even though I am well loved by my parents, I have witnessed the unjust social structures because of double standards in how women are seen with their gender roles. It was because I witnessed this, myself that I am awakened. It stems from observations from my mom, my grandmother, my friends' mothers, and later on from outside the home in my community, and society. You see how we have been so conditioned to how women are treated like second class citizens.

 

CM: What inspires you to create in the way that you do? Have any other artists or specific works that have had a significant impact on you?

 

NL: I will continue to be inspired by women's concerns. My favorite artists are Janine Antoni, Eva Hesse, Alice Neel, and Annette Messager to name a few. These women have influenced my work and my growth as an artist.