Blessed be. Here, we go explore the mind of an eclectic artist.
Self-described as “an acquired taste, like durian or caviar,” Pura Luka Vega is a cerebral queen. They always perform to create a statement on socio-political issues hounding our society with a delicious blend of unpredictable humor. By constantly (admirably so) challenging archaic ideologies, the fantasy they intend to express is liberation. Drag is one of the ultimate and most effective vehicles to crash into that gate, and Luka is like the Big Bang. You better brace yourselves for impact.
How did you come up with your drag name?
Pura Luka Vega is a representation of my past, my present, and my future. The name “Pura” was an alias my friends gave me when they were mocking my femininity. Coincidentally, it was also the name of the very first beauty queen of the Philippines, Pura Villanueva Kalaw. So, I decided to incorporate it later on. I usually go by the name, Luka. I just like the name. Siguro dahil when you repeat the name, it sounds like luka-luka, which is totoo naman. Medyo nakakabaliw kasi ang mundo at nababaliw na rin naman ako paminsan-minsan, so ituloy ko na, ‘di ba? Tapos there’s a song I liked named Luka by Suzanne Vega. So, ayun…Pinagtagpi-tagpi ko na para matapos na. Char!
What was the moment that made you pursue drag?
I was a cosplayer before who entered the male category of cosplay events and Halloween costume contests. One time, a female won the male category dressed up as Joker, and I thought to myself, if that is possible, then I have to try the female category. Next Halloween, I won dressed up as an alien version of Queen Marie Antoinette. At about the same time, I also joined my very first competition through Poison Wednesdays Drag Cartel at Nectar Nightclub. I was so inspired by Madonna’s Vogue performance at the MTV awards in 1991. I drew sketches of the dress and went to Divisoria to conceptualize the outfit. I was in my head with the fantasy. I couldn’t stop thinking about her. And then…poof! Ayun na! The beard came later because I was so fed up with people telling me to shave and how it made me look “dirty.”
What do you wish more people knew about drag?
I wish more people would respect the art of drag and the time and effort it takes to be in drag. It isn’t merely putting on heavy makeup, a wig, and a pair of heels. It is a unique way of storytelling. We, as drag performers, can only hope that what we do can influence people how to feel. It teaches people how to be human. I hope that people can see themselves in the things we do and how drag reflects the society we live in.
What are the pros and cons of drag being pushed into the mainstream?
RuPaul, can you answer this question please? Char! On one hand, it is an incredible way of showing to the world, or the universe rather, how drag enables you to become “confidently beautiful with a heart.” The visibility is there and there will be greater appreciation. But the main complication of popularity is the scrutiny and the expectation of the public. The pressure of conforming to the “ideals” and the consumerism that comes with it—the commodification of drag if you will. Not that there’s anything inherently wrong with it, but it’s hard to put a price tag on art. Then there’s the disillusionment. When something becomes a “ mainstream” thing, it’s usually the preference of the majority. And that may give an impression that there’s a standard to drag and anything that doesn’t conform to the expectation is excluded. And we don’t want that.
Drag Den premieres on December 8, 2022 via Prime Video.
