UTSA embarks on Hispanic Heritage Month festivities: Unveil your culture through art
The University of Texas – San Antonio kicked off its celebration of Hispanic heritage with an early artistic event that showcased the diverse colors and canvases of the culture. Roadrunner Productions organized a free painting event that provided the same paint brushes to all students, yet each individual managed to create unique pieces of art. Chloe Delarosa, a student at UTSA, expressed the individuality of the creations, saying, “When she was picking her colors, they were very like browns and greens and yellows. When I was picking mine, they were pinks, reds. Everyone has their own taste.”
The only stipulation for participation in the event was to paint one’s culture. Participants like Anna Ramirez embraced their cultural heritage, stating, “I’m sort of making it up as I go, but I’m also trying to do colors that I’ve seen a lot in Mexico. When I go visit, there are beautiful buildings and sunsets. Mexico is full of color.” The artwork produced during this event will be displayed around the UTSA campus, but the significance of the group painting goes beyond mere exhibition.
Kaitlyn Torres, another participant, shared her vision for her painting: “I would paint people dancing. My mom was a folklore dancer. She taught me everything she knew.” The monthlong celebration of Hispanic heritage at UTSA will feature workshops, lectures, and activities that highlight the invaluable contributions of the Hispanic and Latino communities. Today’s painting event served as a creative warm-up for the upcoming festivities.
Highlighting the importance of events like these, Torres, who takes pride in her Hispanic culture, stated, “I am Latina. I come from Hispanic culture and pride myself in that, and to have an event that showcases their art and where they came from is very important to highlight students from different ethnic backgrounds.” It is crucial to remember that art is subjective and open to interpretation.
As Anna Ramirez pointed out, “Not everyone is going to see the mountains of Mexico when I paint this, but I know I will. Some people may see sunsets or just a bunch of colorful mountains, but it’s really nice that people will be able to see this and have their own stance.” This event provided an opportunity for students to express their cultural roots through art and encouraged a deeper appreciation of the diverse Hispanic heritage.
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=videoseries
