Marisol Mendez on Her Photograph 'Bull' and Challenging Gender Norms

Bolivian photographer Marisol Mendez discusses her award-winning photograph 'Bull,' part of her series 'Madre,' which explores the depiction of womanhood. The image features actress Marta Salinas wearing a sculptural bull costume, symbolizing masculine energy and strength. Mendez explains that the concept originated from a dream and aims to challenge traditional media portrayals in Bolivia, where women displaying masculine attributes are often narrowly labeled. By incorporating nudity, she seeks to desexualize the female body, presenting it as a tool for self-expression rather than an object of desire. The project also examines archetypes of femininity, asking subjects whether they identify more with Mary Magdalene or the Virgin Mary. Mendez highlights the collaborative nature of the shoot, supported by her mother, and emphasizes the subject's comfort and power. The article provides insight into Mendez's artistic process, her personal history with gender expression, and her critique of societal norms regarding gender and sexuality in Latin America.