The BATA PROJECT

created by LEENDA BONILLA

The Bata Project explores stories of Caribbean womxn and their journey of transnationalism to sustain family, culture, community within the local-global diaspora of NYC.

Leenda Bonilla and artists pay homage to urban/island matriarchy wearing a “bata”, a traditional house dress.

Each session begins with a ceremonial catwalk of batas in colorful patterns/styles leading to a shindig of dance, poetry, singing, urban/folkloric games, and conversations.

Wearing this day dress outside home subverts social expectations (I see you abuela, titi, y Mami!) and celebrates the power of home as something you bring with you everywhere.

2023, supported by NALAC National Association of Latino Arts & Culture via Dancing La Botanica