A carved and glazed ceramic vessel depicting three women leaning on each-other. The one in front has fiery red eye shadow, a hat with the brim folded reading the initials KM, and a light blue choker.

Kristy Moreno

SAFE SPACE (LARGE), 2023

Stoneware, underglaze, slip, glaze

16.25 x 11.25 x 10.5 in

41.3 x 29.2 x 26.7 cm

One of the most detailed works in the exhibition, SAFE SPACE (LARGE) (2023) includes three figures with very differenct styles. Linking arms around the ceramic vessel and leaning on one another, one figure pairs her flat brim hat with KM’s initials emblazoned on the underside with a bubble hairstlyle, bold eye makeup, and a collar necklace. Another wears her blue hair down with a retro-style layered top and name plate earrings stating “MIJA.” The third figure wears her hair in braids with nameplate earrings stating “CHULA,” Together, the three figures push cuteness beyond the commodifiable. Moreno’s protagonists stand make space for each other to shine while standing in solidarity.