Monument explores countering themes of monumentality and domesticity, juxtaposing the occasions society chooses to lionize against the moments that actually sustain it.
Caballero culled from historic and current CCO footage of families posing to show how the family portrait has evolved from a somber, serious affair to one of assumed and projected joy. She even inserted an image of her own family, smiling before an elaborate monument.
As with much of Caballero’s work, this poem acknowledges problematic truths but does not indulge in conflict. Her verse redeems attempts at harmonizing intimate relationships, though these efforts might arise from obligation.
Indeed, for Caballero, such exertion is what ought to be memorialized.
This micro poetic film debuted in December 2024 at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Miami as part of the inaugural installation of Laurie Simmons’ Kaleidoscope House.
Monument forms part of Material, Caballero’s prize-winning book, forthcoming in 2026 via Trio House Press.