Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz

Remarkable Women

60” x 60”

Oil on Linen

A 17th century Mexican nun. An intellectual scholar, feminist, talented artist and poet. This charming young woman gained favor with those who helped her pursue her goals, which were not conventional marriage/slavery. Against numerous odds, being a woman, the 17th century, gripping religious and socio economic strongholds, and being a bastard child, Sor Juana became a gem of her time. Her sexual identity has been questioned throughout the years. It is suggested by those that research her life, that she was a lesbian and her company was highly sought after by wives of those who held court from Spain, in Mexico. She took on grand issues and spoke her voice through letters and essays. The ghost of her unknown father floats through her life, and later takes on a spiritual role. Sor Juana was bold in her points of view, and protected in the convent, which was the only way out of an ordinary 17th century life.