Pieter Henket's dazzling portrait series, Birds of Mexico City, offers a breathtaking look at a generation in Mexico that is courageously redefining gender, identity, and self-expression. The series, created with stylist Chino Castilla, is set within a carefully constructed studio environment in Mexico City.
The Concept Behind the Series
Henket describes the experience of viewing the portraits as akin to being in 'a museum where the art comes alive.' Each image tells a unique story, blending elements of Mexican culture, personal narratives, and artistic vision.
Notable Portraits and Their Stories
- Las Flores: 'Nicolette and Monica are like two flowers in a vase,' says Henket. 'I loved how connected they were – we just wanted to capture that.'
- Tatuajes: Tania's body is covered in tattoos, including one that says 'DF,' the former name of Mexico City. The team built a Virgin Mary dress for her, covering the tattoos to emphasize that while they tell her story, viewers don't get to read it.
- La Mujer: Ixchel reclaims the lucha libre wrestling mask, a symbol of masculinity, in a powerful statement against Mexico's macho culture.
- El Sabucán: An outfit created from woven plastic shopping bags, transforming everyday objects into a sculptural garment that highlights the beauty in overlooked items.
- Fuerza: Jossafat, a young gymnast, wears a leopard-print costume with kitten heels. He posted the image on Instagram, expressing pride in his appearance and challenging macho norms.
- El Cuerno: A tender moment between Carina and Diego is juxtaposed with Carmen, dressed as a devil, representing dark forces that try to intervene in love.
- Contemplar: Fernando, a street performer, dances for the team and receives a standing ovation, rekindling his sense of appreciation lost during lockdown.
- Niñez: Melón, a poet, wears a football kit under a dress, embodying both masculinity and femininity on her own terms.
- La Madre: A modern Pietà with Ixchel Paz and Emiliano Cruz, blending Christian imagery with the Mayan goddess Ixchel.
- Libertad: Mariana holds a broken corset, symbolizing her choice to free herself from societal constraints.
- El Paliacate: Fabrizzio, a team member, is photographed with free energy, embodying the project's spirit.
- Flor de Mayo: Carmen wears a resplandor headdress, referencing Frida Kahlo, and invites viewers into the frame.
- El Recreo: A piñata represents childhood and cultural history, from Mayan origins to Spanish influence.
- La Raíz: Otokani stands proud with plants wrapped around his body, symbolizing fragility and strength.
Exhibition and Publication
Birds of Mexico City is on display at Bildhalle in Amsterdam until 8 August, with a book published by Damiani. The series is a celebration of individuality and the courage to be oneself.
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