‘Rough Rider’ at ASU Art Museum: A Bold Exploration of Rodeo Culture Through a Queer Lens

Artist José Villalobos merges the rich imagery of the Southwest and Mexican cowboy vaquero culture with queer identity, crafting provocative visual narratives. Their multimedia artworks challenge traditional perceptions of masculinity and humanity.

Featured in notable institutions like the Phoenix Art Museum, El Museo de Arte de Ciudad Juárez, and The Dallas Museum of Art, Villalobos’s work engages with the violent power dynamics faced by queer and BIPOC communities. Each piece serves as a testament to the complexities of identity in contemporary society.

By blending cultural references with personal experiences, Villalobos invites viewers to rethink the boundaries of gender and identity. Their art not only reflects struggles but also celebrates resilience and diversity.

This body of work captures the intersection of culture and identity, showcasing the power of art to provoke discussion and inspire change.