It seems Alma Lopez is at it again.
When her computer collage titled “Our Lady” appeared at Santa Fe’s Museum of International Folk Art in February of 2001, it unleashed a wave of controversy that even now divides the city. Press reports described the “art” exhibit as a floral bikini-clad Virgin of Guadalupe held aloft by a topless female angel.
At that time, nearly a thousand Catholics gathered in front of Santa Fe’s Museum of International Folk Art to express their outrage. In addition, the American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family and Property (TFP) and its affiliate campaign America Needs Fatima coordinated a campaign where Catholics sent in over 65,000 Enough is enough! protest postcards and thousands of e-mails.
Public outcry was so overwhelming that the collage has not been displayed anywhere… until next week.
On Sunday, June 29, Alma Lopez will be showing, “Our Lady,” under the title “Our Lady of Controversy” at the Galeria Otra Vez, in Los Angeles. It will be part of the gallery’s Annual Print Exhibition and One Day Only Print Fair. The piece that was considered so blasphemous will be on display from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
“I am appalled at the insensitivity of the museum directors who claim to serve the Hispanic community,” said campaign director Robert E. Ritchie. “Whether it shows for four months or four hours, Santa Fe was proof that this print is offensive to all Catholics!”
Catholics are urged to protest by fax, telephone, write or e-mail the gallery to express their outrage at this offense against the Blessed Mother. A Sunday local protest is also planned.