She is Art | Shopping

Author photo

Author photo

By Karina Guardiola-Lopez

She is Art

abstract realism

a divine duality

endlessly evolving

layer upon layer of

unblended brush strokes

harden acrylic and abrasive

defense mechanisms

tones and textures

in a

vibrant hues and values

multifaceted multimedia

an eccentric aesthetic

a canvas of custom curves

curt, a signature for survival

nonlinear lines, lumpy

a triptych tied together by her

body, brainpower and

beyond

non-objective

all subjective

not perfected

yet exquisite

a one of a kind

not for sale


Shopping

Shopping involves eyes rolls

Sucking of teeth

Learning the difference between an XL and 1X

Inhale

Turn

Release

 

Menacing mirrors

Model-like mannequins in a one-size fits most

Everyone is staring

Stretch

Pull

Tug

 

Tight fitting room

Where the door closes from the inside

Hold your breath, squeeze!

Inhale

Turn

Release

 

A headless mannequin

Points to a sign that says

“Plus size section upstairs”

Stretch

Pull

Tug

 

I go to the elevator

The sale rep looks at me

I look back, she points with her chin, towards the stairs

Inhale

Turn

Release

 

I ask her “How far up”

She responds “It’s easy, go up three flights, make a right, then make a left, and another left and

walk straight to the back

Stop

Inhale

Turn

Walk out

Don’t look back

Release


Karina Guardiola-Lopez, is a writer, poet, actor and educator from New York City. She has been published in various magazines, anthologies and websites including: Writing For Peace, Great Weather for Media, The Scrib Arts Journal, Indolent Books, Poetica Magazine, Acentos Review, New Voices Anthology, The BX Files, Latinoauthor.com just to name a few. She has also featured at various venues including: The NYC Poetry Festival at Governor's Island, National Black Theatre, Bowery Poetry Club, Nuyorican Poets Cafe, Q-Boro Lit Crawl, The Bronx Museum and many other locations. She has facilitated many poetry workshops such as Pens, Pads and Poets for both youth and adults. For more information visit www.kglopez.com