Trans Visibility Day, celebrated on January 29, is a symbol of struggle and resistance. For Zaia Angelo, a visual artist and trans woman, this date emphasizes the urgency of addressing the challenges and basic rights of the trans community in Brazil—the country with the highest number of trans people murdered worldwide. “We must remember that Trans Visibility Day is not a celebration, but a day of struggle and resistance. We demand visibility, employment, respect, safety, and the basic rights that cis people have in their daily lives,” Zaia emphasizes.
Art plays a central role in both the artist’s life and activism, serving as a tool for education and awareness. “As an artist, it has been incredibly rewarding to break through barriers and occupy spaces beyond marginalization through my art. Art has the power to educate, raise awareness, and touch people who might not otherwise listen to me, but who engage with trans themes through my paintings,” she explains.
Zaia also uses her art to celebrate the diversity and beauty of trans people. In addition, she has created artistic works for prominent figures such as Anitta, Wenny Isa, Iza, Marina Sena, Blogueirinha, Lexa, among others. However, facing censorship has been part of her journey. “It’s not easy being a trans artist who speaks about the experiences of our community. I’ve had my work censored several times, like A Origem, which was banned twice for being a trans version of Adam and Eve—simply because trans bodies were displayed on the canvas. But despite the attacks, I will never stop using art to express my truth and what I believe in,” she asserts.
The impact of her work goes beyond the canvas. “It makes me so happy when trans people tell me they are inspired by me and see themselves in my work. I hope that more and more trans people can occupy positions of prominence and power, and that one day, many will be working alongside me, thriving more and more,” Zaia celebrates.
For her, the pride of being trans is essential: “Being trans is not easy, but there is nothing more beautiful and true than being who we really are. Be proud of yourselves because being trans is beautiful! Never give up on your truth.”
Comments