The Chicana Codex

Inspired by the Mexica codices, Chicana Codex is a self-portrait with a collection of fragments and symbols all around that derive from the Tonalpohualli (Mexica Calendar), codices, and aspects of the artist's life. Guided by the writings of late Chicana author and scholar Gloria Anzaldúa, Delgado wanted to reflect on her identity through this print. The chapter "Tlilli, Tlapalli: The Path of the Red and Black Ink" (which translates to writing and wisdom) in her Anzaldúa's Borderlands/La Frontera: The New Mestiza initiated the idea for this work. Overall, the work reflects the artist's ongoing exploration of being Mexican American/Chicana in the U.S.