An art exhibit focused on Mexican wrestling opens at the Oak Cliff Cultural Center next month.
Lucha Libre 2021 was curated by Jose Vargas and features paintings, photography, and mixed media work from artists in Dallas, Fort Worth, El Paso, Waco and San Antonio.
Here’s how the City of Dallas explains lucha libre:
Lucha libre, which translates to “free fighting,” is one of the most popular spectator sports and entertainment of Mexico. This form of sport is known for its fast paced, high flying, and acrobatic style of wrestling, as well as the use of colorful and mysterious masks worn by the wrestlers. The máscaras (masks) are an important element of the sport. Their elaborate designs can be traced back to the Aztecs, as they symbolize gods, animals, ancient heroes, and other well-known Mexican archetypes. The luchadores that wear the masks take on these identities. A mask is a badge of honor that the wrestlers fight to protect.
Lucha Libre has grown in popularity over the years and has been the subject of artists, writers, musicians, and film. The famous Luchador El Santo appeared in both comic books and movies in the prime of his career. This exhibition honors the history and culture of Luchadoras (female wrestlers) and Luchadores (male wrestlers), amplifying the artistry and personas of Lucha whose identity is secret to the public.
The show opens with a reception from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, and it runs through Jan. 21.
