Discovering an Everyday Story
Marina Sáez, a resident of the Gracia neighborhood, found a space in the pool at the sports center on Perill Street that provided her with inspiration for her graphic novel, Aiguagim. This work, awarded the Special Mention of the Finestre Comic Prize in Catalan 2022, sublimely portrays the daily life of a group of women who meet daily at the pool, offering a unique perspective on life and social interaction.
A Tribute to Life
Aiguagim is, in essence, a tribute to the women that Marina found in the pool, whom she herself describes as her heroines. The work highlights the vitality and humor of these older women, challenging stereotypes and offering a refreshing vision of old age in today’s society.
Reflections on Life and Patriarchy
Through Aiguagim, Marina addresses topics such as motherhood and the impact of patriarchy on the lives of women, both in their roles as mothers and grandmothers. The graphic novel reveals the experiences and challenges these women face, offering a deeper perspective on their lives and points of view.
The Creative Process and Resilience
The Aiguagim project was conceived in 2018, and over the years, Marina gradually developed it. Despite the challenges and lack of initial recognition for her, she persisted in her creative work, which finally resulted in the well-deserved recognition with the special mention of the Catalan Comics Prize from the Finestres publishing house.
Art as Political and Social Expression
Aiguagim, although born from personal experiences, reflects relevant political and social aspects. Marina recognizes that her feminist and anti-capitalist perspective influenced her work, offering a rebellious and reflective look at everyday life and social dynamics.
Privacy and Ethics in Artistic Creation
Marina faced ethical dilemmas when capturing the stories of the women in Aiguagim, aware of the importance of preserving their privacy. However, the process of communication with the protagonists and the careful selection of the anecdotes shared guaranteed a respectful and authentic approach in the representation of their lives.
Art as Testimony of Everyday Life
Through Aiguagim, Marina demonstrates that everyday stories, when told authentically, can offer a powerful vision of reality. The work reflects the richness of daily life and the diversity of experiences, highlighting the importance of giving voice to people’s common and extraordinary experiences.
