Burdened by Conviction: The Pressures Within

Author

Dulce M. Perez, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Date of Award

12-1-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

Department

Art

First Advisor

Deanna M Witman

Second Advisor

Brenton Hamilton

Third Advisor

Gina Palacios

Abstract

This thesis investigates how religious and political systems, particularly Catholic influences in the Rio Grande Valley, limit and silence women. By employing historical and alternative photographic techniques such as cyanotype, gum bichromate, and photo transfer, I express how these systems control and shape women’s lives. Combined, the materials serve as a metaphor for the oppression and damage which power can inflict. In these works, fabric represents the potential for manipulation of the human mind; the red thread stitched through cloth and paper symbolizes control; and fragmented images are a reference to the collapse of humanity. Throughout this exploration, I reflect on the works of two important figures–Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz and Jean-Jacques Rousseau–whose insights help inform my perspective. Additionally, I consider the works of Shirin Neshat and Judy Chicago who, like me, have explored gender and power. By examining these sources, I aim to identify the historical and social factors that have contributed to the development of patriarchal systems in which women often have limited rights over their bodies and overall autonomy. Ultimately, my objective is to encourage critical reflection on the persistent influence of gendered power structures and their consequence for Latina women in the Rio Grande Valley.

Comments

Copyright 2025 Dulce Perez. All Rights Reserved. https://www.proquest.com/docview/3292531720

Recommended Citation

Perez, D. M. (2025). Burdened by Conviction: The Pressures Within [Master's thesis, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley]. ScholarWorks @ UTRGV. https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/etd/1818