She is Art | Shopping
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