Community Rental: Aside the Show- The Untold Story of Julia Pastrana

The journey of Julia Pastrana – a Mexican carnival artist who lived in the 19th century – packs enough oddities for a whole Netflix series, but remains unknown by most. As a bearded lady, Pastrana traveled all over Europe and the US throughout her life….and after it. Let us explain: for over a hundred years after her death, her mummified body was passed on from hand to hand, being exhibited around the world. Enter NYC-based visual artist Laura Anderson Barbata, who in 2013 managed to arrange the transfer of Pastrana’s body from Oslo, Norway, to Pastrana’s hometown in Mexico to finally – 153 years later – be buried.

A group of women, led by Larissa Garcia and Katie Sabolek, have come together to tell Julia’s story inspired by their own histories and experiences. We hope to help generate a conversation that is spearheaded by inclusion and acceptance.

Included at this event:

-a lecture and Q&A period given by Dr. Kathleen Godfrey from Arizona State University, who has developed a historic database containing documents related to Pastrana’s life.
-a one woman show by award winning performer Larissa Garcia, loosely based on Julia’s story.
-a space dedicated to the artwork, the film, and the pivotal role that Laura Anderson Barbata played in finally putting Julia’s body to rest in Mexico.
– a room where children and adults alike can create a craft originated in Mexico.
-several interactive art pieces aiming to recreate what Julia’s emotional journey might have been.
-timelines and historic documents to educate and inform about Julia’s life.

As a symbol of disrespect and exploitation, Julia’s story speaks directly to the souls of anyone who has been rejected or vilified for being “different” and to all of us who fight for equality. Given the current sociopolitical landscape of our country it is crucial to foster the conversation regarding the rights of all disenfranchised people.