Cara’s images are shiny—and they shine a light on things that others don’t see. Her photos blend modern techniques with traditional outfits for a surprising juxtaposition that spotlights history.
Naomi of the First American Girl series (2017)
https://www.ucpress.edu/blog/41935/5womenartists-cara-romero/
Similar to past artists we’ve talked about, she wants to change the way people see Native Americans. In particular, she emphasizes the importance of Native American women, who are often erased culturally. She believes they can gain just as much respect, love, and beauty as others if she can create more representation in her own art.
For example, she has photographs of women and children in traditional attire in unique, striking backgrounds. This emphasizes the fact that, while these are a part of history, they are also very much a part of the modern world.
Temiki (Little Death) part of the Native Woman series , 2023
https://www.cararomero.com/temiki
She has been featured in prominent magazines and platforms for her photography. She recently received a large grant to make a series of billboards in Los Angeles to further her goals. They are a part of her Desert X exhibition to show what it means to be on Indian land in California and challenge their connection to the land.
Desert X
https://www.chadslattery.com/Travel:-Desert-X/3
Her ultimate goal—just like mine—is to highlight other artists.