3 Card Tarot Reading at The Hammer Museum

On Wednesday, March 20, 2024, artist Edgar Fabián Frías was honored to participate in a significant event at the Hammer Museum, marking the release of Chris E. Vargas' transformative new book, Trans Hirstory in 99 Objects. Surrounded by esteemed figures in the trans community such as Zackary Drucker, Raquel Gutiérrez, Amos Mac, Uri McMillan, Christina Linden, and David Evans Frantz, Frías found themselves immersed in a deeply moving and unforgettable experience among other trans luminaries.

The evening exuded a palpable energy, almost sacred in nature, as if the spirits of trans ancestors were present, blessing the gathering and guiding its proceedings. Central to the event was Vargas' visionary concept of the Museum of Trans Hirstory & Art (MOTHA), a dynamic space perpetually under construction, dedicated to celebrating trans narratives and existence. In a world where trans voices have often been marginalized or silenced, MOTHA stands as a vital assertion of trans magic and resilience.

A poignant moment of the evening came when Frías was invited to offer a collective three-card tarot reading, using Rachel Pollack’s The Shining Tribe Tarot deck—which was also the object assigned to Edgar as their contribution to the book. This experience facilitated unexpected emotional revelations, with the drawing of The Strength card (for the present) symbolizing fortitude and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges, especially during the year where The Strength is our card of the year.

In reflecting on the event, Frías underscores its significance as a convergence of artistic expression, community building, and the reclaiming of trans narratives. It stands as a testament to the power of collective storytelling and the enduring spirit of resilience within the trans community.

Click on the video below to watch the full event on Hammer Museum’s YouTube Channel.