Artist Statement

As a queer-Filipino-immigrant, interdisciplinary artist based in San Francisco, California, my practice centers around the theme of decolonization through the lens of interdisciplinary art. Through my work, I aim to challenge traditional notions of identity, power, and representation by utilizing the transformative and subversive elements of drag and its materiality. With a keen focus on reclaiming marginalized narratives and disrupting dominant ideologies, I use a variety of mediums and techniques to create immersive and thought-provoking experiences. Through the convergence of film, performative and visual art, I seek to create conversations and spaces that celebrate diversity and evoke critical reflection. Ultimately, my art seeks to challenge and dismantle oppressive systems and foster a more inclusive and equitable society.

Bio

Jethro Patalinghug is a Filipino non-binary interdisciplinary artist, and activist. They were the featured visual artist for the Oaklash Drag Festival 2023 in Oakland, California which showcased their sculptural works “Disco Balling Heads”, “The Performer” and “Gabriela Rising”. Their works were also featured in the 2022 Trans Aware Art Exhibition in San Francisco and as well as the Out of Site: Sylvester the Mighty Real historical walk tour. Jethro was a fellow for the 2022 Film Independent's CNN Docu-Series Intensive and DOCNY’s Storytelling Incubator. They are also known as the drag persona “Virginia Please” on TikTok and teaches indigenous, black and brown queer and trans representation. They serve as one of the Board of Directors for the GLBTQ+ Asian Pacific Alliance, Oaklash, Center for Immigrant Protection and EyeZen. Jethro is currently working on a film entitled “The Long Rescue”which follows the nine lifelong years of child sex trafficking survivors in the Philippines