The Politics of the Handkerchief
“Handkerchiefs have long been used as discreet symbols within the queer community to signal sexual preferences and desires. This practice, known as the hanky code, allowed individuals to communicate their interests without verbalizing them, thus maintaining a level of privacy and safety in hostile environments.”
Rafael Melendez’s take on a Felix Gonzalez-Torres 1990 piece
This handkerchief, produced by the Academy of Realness, features a digital print on cotton showing dolphins following each other in a circular formation. Created specifically for the Inventory art book fair at Cromwell Place, this edition is limited to 16 pieces. It includes the phrase “NOBODY OWNS ME” printed on it, alongside text indicating its creation for the occasion of the fair.
The motif of dolphins in a ring can be traced back to a work by Felix Gonzalez-Torres from 1990, initially produced as an untitled rub-on transfer and later in various other forms, such as embossed white paper, a silkscreen on a T-shirt and even as a tattoo. This work, often reproduced and recontextualized, highlights the themes of love, eternity, ownership, or the lack thereof.
The Message “NOBODY OWNS ME”
The phrase “NOBODY OWNS ME” is a powerful declaration of autonomy and self-ownership, resonating deeply within the queer community. It challenges the notion of being controlled or claimed by another, asserting the individual’s right to self-determination and freedom. This message is particularly poignant in the context of LGBTQ+ history, where personal and sexual autonomy has been historically suppressed.
Dolphins and Queer Culture
Dolphins, often seen as symbols of freedom and harmony, resonate with queer culture due to their social and playful nature. In this artwork, the circular arrangement of dolphins suggests unity and continuity, symbolizing an eternal bond that transcends conventional boundaries. This imagery can be interpreted as a metaphor for the queer community’s interconnectedness and resilience.
The Politics of the Handkerchief
Handkerchiefs have long been used as discreet symbols within the queer community to signal sexual preferences and desires. This practice, known as the hanky code, allowed individuals to communicate their interests without verbalizing them, thus maintaining a level of privacy and safety in hostile environments. By integrating this symbol into the artwork, it not only pays homage to this historical practice but also reclaims it as a form of artistic and political expression.
Art Historical Lineage and Rafael Melendez’s Practice
Rafael Melendez, also known as RTM, continues to blend personal narrative with broader cultural and historical themes. Melendez situates his practice within a dialogue about legacy, repetition, and reinterpretation in art by reinterpreting Felix Gonzalez-Torres' work. His use of everyday objects, such as handkerchiefs, imbues them with layers of meaning, connecting personal identity with collective memory.
Symbolism of the Ring
The ring of dolphins in Felix Gonzalez-Torres’ work symbolizes eternity and the cyclical nature of time and relationships. This motif suggests an unbroken bond, echoing endless love and connection themes. In the context of the handkerchief, this ring becomes a symbol of perpetual resistance and the enduring spirit of the queer community.
In summary, this handkerchief by Rafael Melendez not only pays tribute to the artistic legacy of Felix Gonzalez-Torres but also serves as a powerful symbol of freedom, unity, and resilience within queer culture. Its use of historical motifs and contemporary messages bridges the past and present, creating a deeply personal and universally resonant work.