Untitled, 2026
Ink on plastic
16 x 6 x 4 inches (40.6 x 15 x 10 cm)

Courtesy of kurimanzutto

Selected by Laura Hoptman

The work of Jerónimo López Ramírez, better known as Dr. Lakra, is characterized by irreverent and provocative images that transgress established norms, leaving the viewer both attracted and repulsed. He first began developing his practice when joining Gabriel Orozco’s workshop Taller de los viernes from 1988 to 1991, together with Abraham Cruzvillegas, Damián Ortega, and Gabriel Kuri. While he is best known for his drawings and paintings on posters, erotic magazines and postcards, his practice also involves mural painting, collage and sculpture. Through these mediums he explores his interests in anthropology and ethnography, documenting his fascination with taboos, fetishes, myths and rituals of different cultures. An avid collector of diverse objects, Dr. Lakra views the search for materials and images as an essential aspect of his practice. His compositions combine historical and contemporary references, incorporating quotes from popular culture interwoven with religious and social iconographies. The way he juxtaposes and refashions these different elements reveals a deep understanding of art history, as well as a subversive sense of humor. Dr. Lakra dismantles and disrupts dominant ideologies to question what is considered civilized or barbaric, correct or incorrect, “high” or “folk” art. 

Dr. Lakra lives and works between Mexico City and Oaxaca, Mexico.