Humanities and Art, Mano y Mano
This blog post is generously provided in kind by Marie Valencia. The Double Down blog is also supported by Nevada Humanities’ donors.
By Marie Valencia
Image courtesy of Marie Valencia.
Growing up in the Southwest, I have always felt a strong connection to these lands that call to home for so many of us and our ancestors. From New Mexico to Nevada, I feel very fortunate to be connected to the vast environments, ecosystems, and artistic inspirations that come from the desert. I find beauty in daily occurrences such as seeing a fox run through a New Mexican vineyard or a hawk landing in a friend’s Henderson backyard. I feel a part of ecosystems that work hard to live and thrive in our sometimes harsh environments.
In that same capacity of creative inclusions, Nevada Humanities has always been a tremendous ally to BIPOC artists like myself, providing opportunities, education, and support. In these pertinent times, I find it comforting that we can uplift one another — artists and non-profits — to promote continued public education. I am passionate about uplifting those who intentionally care about our natural lands, environments, and creative pursuits. For me, there is never a shortage of ways to ensure our lands and the arts are protected.
“I find beauty in daily occurrences such as seeing a fox run through a New Mexican vineyard or a hawk landing in a friend’s Henderson backyard.”
Image courtesy of Marie Valencia.
Writing, speaking, film and traditional arts allow for us all to utilize different ways to express our care and show humanity for what means most. For me, I am always wanting to encourage folks to learn more about these Indigenous lands, histories, and vast cultural arts. As a Chicana, I am very proud to continue representing and investing in my creative pursuits professionally for over 11 years. There is no shortage of inspiration to me living in the Southwest and I am grateful to everyone who's uplifted me in my artistic pursuits on my continued journey.
What means most to me is for us all to continue our work in the arts and humanities by using our expressions to educate, inspire, and lead the next generation.
Marie Valencia is a self-taught artist. Valencia participated in her first public art showcase at First Friday in Las Vegas in 2006 and owns a small business that serves as Valencia’s official brand and mobile pop-up showcase. Seeing a lack of diversity for BIPOC/LBGTQA artists in the art community, Valencia began curating local art events in 2017 with underrepresented artists, musicians, and other local businesses. Valencia is passionate about networking, co-curation, and creating art that is authentic to her experiences as a Queer Chicana artist.