Teresa Margolles Unveils Trans Tribute Sculpture in London

A new artwork titled 'Mil Veces un Instante (A Thousand Times in an Instant)' by Mexican artist Teresa Margolles was unveiled in London's Trafalgar Square, featuring plaster casts of 726 faces belonging to transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals. The piece, which will be on display for 18 months, aims to honor the trans community and highlight issues of violence against them, particularly referencing the unsolved murder of Margolles' friend, Karla La Borrada. The sculpture's design evokes a Tzompantli, a traditional Mesoamerican skull rack, symbolizing the struggles faced by marginalized communities. Margolles expressed her intent to create a collective tribute to the trans community rather than a singular memorial. The installation is part of the Fourth Plinth's ongoing series of contemporary artworks aimed at engaging public dialogue and awareness. Activists and community members see this as a significant moment for visibility and representation in a prominent public space.