This quote highlights the complex performative nature of identity, particularly in contexts where race and art intersect. The speaker, likely an artist, consciously assumes roles that embody racial identity, specifically that of a 'negress,' a term historically fraught with racial stereotypes and offensive connotations. The act of self-appointment suggests a deliberate challenge to traditional power structures and societal norms embedded within art institutions, which are often predominantly white and Eurocentric. By choosing to consciously 'perform' a racial identity, the artist not only questions the authenticity and boundaries of racial representation but also exposes the racial dynamics within cultural spaces. This self-identification can be interpreted as a form of resistance, asserting agency over how racial identity is expressed and perceived. It brings to light the intersectionality of race, art, and institutional critique. The use of the term 'white-box institution' further emphasizes the idea of a transparent, perhaps restrictive space that potentially facilitates or complicates such performances. Overall, the quote encapsulates a provocative stance on racial identity as a performative act, pushing viewers to consider how institutions of art and society perpetuate racial stereotypes or enable their subversion. The performative approach urges reflection on authenticity, representation, and the power dynamics that shape our understanding of race and culture within these constrictive frameworks.