Margarita V. Beltrán, a Colombian artist and photographer, challenges traditional family narratives with her new project, “Arder la casa,” which puts women at the center of the visual representation. Inspired by a cropped photograph of her grandmother in an old family album, Beltrán reclaims the narrative, highlighting the crucial roles women have played in her family and challenging the patriarchal gaze of Latin American culture.
In the era before color photography, black-and-white images of loved ones served as a poignant connection to the past. Hung on living room walls, these portraits evoked a sense of presence despite the absence of their subjects. Through conversations and family gatherings, the stories behind the faces emerged, breathing life into the images. With each Christmas whitewash, photos were removed, cleaned, and repositioned, offering a fresh perspective on the past and a glimpse into the lives of those gone by. The ticking of an old clock amidst the portraits echoed the passage of time, a gentle reminder that memories endure even as life moves forward.
Joan Nathan, a renowned cookbook author, has unveiled her latest and likely final work, “My Life in Recipes,” a captivating blend of cookbook and memoir. Through her culinary journey, Nathan delves into her own Jewish heritage, exploring how food traditions have evolved over time. Filled with personal anecdotes, family recipes, and historical insights, Nathan’s book offers a glimpse into her life and the significance of food and family in shaping Jewish identity.
