I am a proud member of a local art collective called The Phoenix Fridas. When I was invited to become a member in 2011 I was thrilled!

Every year we celebrate Frida Kahlo's birthday with an artful and crafty celebration. In addition to that we participate in other events and exhibitions collectively and individually. Group membership has changed but one thing is for sure, the support of this collective has a strong foundation. I am grateful to be part of a collective of women that support one another.  

For more information on the Phoenix Fridas and upcoming events visit the link below.

This semester, Spring 2018, I am taking a Painting 1 class. The first project we did was using acrylic paint on canvas. I had painted with acrylic paint before but with instruction I gathered a better understanding. I want to continue working with acrylic paint and explore my work using this medium.

I started this painting and I have been layering paint on top of paint and sanding in between. I have been letting the paint guide me to take the next step. I don't know when it will be finished but I am having fun painting it :)

Photo credit: Judy Butzine

Towards the end of 2017 and the beginning of 2018 I had the pleasure of creating a project with South Mountain High School students. The exhibition titled "The Visual Arts Unmask My Story" and the opportunity to create this project were possible by the collaboration between South Mountain High School, Cultural Arts Coalition and ASU West Campus.  The exhibition of this project, works of art by the students and professional artist is being exhibited from January 13th- February 22, 2018 at ASU West Campus Fletcher Library. 

This experience feels like a full circle moment in my life. Through art I had the opportunity to return to the classroom where the seed of art was planted inside me. In this exhibit, I have my art hanging next to my high school art teacher Janet Broyles. Whom I am thankful to continue to have her support through the years. Also in this classroom, I was introduced to Huichol Beadwork and the connection with my creativity and cultural roots sparked. Judy Butzine, curator of the exhibit and director of Cultural Arts Coalition is also the woman who came as a guest and made this introduction that had a great impact in my life. 

This was my first experience guiding a group of young artist. At the reception the expressions on their faces as they saw the finished project brought happiness to my little heart. I hope to be able to continue sharing art with the community. 

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