notes from my iphone

In this video Libbi Ponce is dissecting traditional brainwashing techniques, e.g. (slowing down) frame rate manipulation and image bombardment, as a mode to share a reflection as a first generation, millennial, latin-american immigrant. She also references the screen as a lived experience through physical manifestations of the smartphone and early computer game animations, such as solitaire.

The artist is attempting to use the oppressor’s techniques in order to undo and unlearn the truth of the term ‘american’.

(geographically) What does it mean to be a true american? What does it mean to be all american? To be born in america? (keeping in mind that the term america references north, south, and central america) If your parents were born in south america, and you yourself are born in north america, technically, that does make you, all american, correct?

(culturally) What does it mean to be a true Latinx? Does it mean your native tongue is flawless? Does it mean you can chop plantanos without looking? Does it mean you spend your time around other Latinos? Does it mean you embrace the label? Does being [a cultural] american mean burgers, picket fences, and barbecue? Does it mean being an immigrant? Does it mean conserving traditional family values?