Ep. 227: I Met God and Her Name is Barbara "Willy" Mendes

Jason Louv interviews Barbara Mendes, a multifaceted artist known for her underground comics and contemporary art. Mendes, affectionately known by her pen name Willie Mendes, recounts her artistic journey that began in the 1960s, during a time when female artists often faced discrimination and marginalization. She reflects on the challenges that women artists experienced, noting that much of the comic book industry, as well as the fine arts, was dominated by men. Despite these obstacles, Mendes pursued her passion for painting, which she describes as her true love.

Throughout the conversation, Mendes reveals her spiritual evolution, which has shifted from exploring Eastern philosophies and African spirituality to embracing Orthodox Judaism later in her life. She shares anecdotes about her family history rooted in rabbinical tradition and discusses her initial rejection of religious teachings as superstition. However, her spiritual quest led her back to her Jewish roots, guided by a longing for faith and connection. Mendes recounts how significant events, such as the influence of various books on mysticism and spirituality, shaped her understanding of Judaism and inspired her art.

Mendes discusses her experiences studying Hebrew and Torah and how they deepened her artistic expression. Through her mural projects, she dove into biblical themes while utilizing vibrant colors and imaginative storytelling to convey her interpretations. Her relationship with the Orthodox community has been complex; while she embraces many rituals, she also grapples with the patriarchal aspects of the tradition that feel constraining at times. Mendes articulates how the dynamics of being a woman within the Orthodox framework can be challenging, but she finds empowerment and strength within her experiences.

The interview takes a thought-provoking turn when they discuss the concept of divinity and gender. Mendes introduces her idea that the traditional male depiction of God does not account for the feminine aspect of divinity. She references the cultural shift from ancient matriarchal societies to patriarchal religions, suggesting that women have long been marginalized in religious narratives. Mendes proposes that a more balanced understanding of spirituality should involve recognizing the feminine face of divinity alongside the male.

As they explore the intersections of art, spirituality, and societal changes, Mendes shares her vision for a future defined by gender equality and compassion. She highlights influential figures like Golda Meir, the former Prime Minister of Israel, whom she views as a powerful representation of women in leadership. Mendes envisions an ideal where women's contributions are celebrated as essential to societal progress rather than secondary to male leadership.

Mendes also brings forth the topic of angels as symbols of guidance and support, drawing parallels between her artistic imagination and the reality of human relationships. The conversation culminates in Mendes’s belief that art is a tool for personal and societal transformation. She emphasizes that while her artistic inspirations are deeply personal, they reflect universal themes of hope, resilience, and the quest for understanding.

The dialogue concludes on a celebratory note, with Mendes discussing her ongoing artistic endeavors, including her new paintings and her gallery in Los Angeles. She invites listeners to engage with her work, emphasizing her commitment to using art as a means of expressing her unique vision and fostering a deeper understanding of spirituality.

Overall, the interview provides a rich tapestry of insights into Mendes’s life, exploring her journey as an artist, her spiritual explorations, and her perspectives on gender dynamics in both the art world and religious traditions.

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