Inspire - Elevate - Grow
Giovanni Arellano, known as Fiendsco, is a talented Mexican American artist whose passion for drawing was ignited by his father’s teachings at the age of 5. With creative outlets including spray-painting and screen printing, Giovanni has left his mark on various projects. In 2022, he collaborated with the Mexican Cultural Center DuPage at Cantigny for the Alebrijes project and painted windows for the “Year of the Alebrijes” event in West Chicago. The following year, he created the Alebrijes x Warhol community art installation and crafted a chair representing District 25 for the “Seat at the Table” project. Through Fiendsco, Giovanni continues to thrive as an artist and designer.
He serves as an inspiration to youth, embracing his Mexican traditions and heritage through his artistry. Together with Gio Arellano and the entire community, the DuPage Hispanic Alliance remains committed to embracing the vibrant tapestry of Hispanic cultures, weaving them into the fabric of our collective identity. Let us empower one another, celebrate our uniqueness, and forge a path of diversity, heritage, and inclusivity, enriching DuPage County for generations to come.
Mexican American artist Gloria Contreras preserves a cultural treasure with exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, infusing her pieces with significant cultural and visual importance.
Gloria’s artistic journey began with papier-mâché Catrinas for the Day of the Dead, leading her to explore the entire realm of Mexican cartoneria. Immersed in Mexico’s culture and traditions, she seeks guidance from esteemed master cartoneros during her trips to Mexico, returning with boundless inspiration and joy.
Through her participation in various cultural events and exhibitions, Gloria’s art has left a lasting impact, enriching celebrations like the Mexican Independence Day celebration in Cicero, Arts in the Dark Parade in Chicago, and Day of the Dead Festival in both Blue Island and in Homewood. She has also showcased her work at the Tamale Hut Gallery, Mexican Cultural Center, and Chicago city hall. Furthermore, her passion for Mexican culture has made her a keynote speaker at several Chicago area schools.
Together with Gloria Contreras and the entire community, the DuPage Hispanic Alliance will continue to embrace the vibrant tapestry of Hispanic cultures, weaving it into the fabric of our collective identity. Let us empower each other, celebrate our uniqueness, and forge a path that celebrates diversity, heritage, and inclusivity, making DuPage County a richer and more vibrant place for generations to come.
Mexican American artist Gloria Contreras preserves a cultural treasure with exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, infusing her pieces with significant cultural and visual importance.
Gloria's artistic journey began with papier-mâché Catrinas for the Day of the Dead, leading her to explore the entire realm of Mexican cartoneria. Immersed in Mexico's culture and traditions, she seeks guidance from esteemed master cartoneros during her trips to Mexico, returning with boundless inspiration and joy.
Through her participation in various cultural events and exhibitions, Gloria's art has left a lasting impact, enriching celebrations like the Mexican Independence Day celebration in Cicero, Arts in the Dark Parade in Chicago, and Day of the Dead Festival in both Blue Island and in Homewood. She has also showcased her work at the Tamale Hut Gallery, Mexican Cultural Center, and Chicago city hall. Furthermore, her passion for Mexican culture has made her a keynote speaker at several Chicago area schools.
Together with Gloria Contreras and the entire community, the DuPage Hispanic Alliance will continue to embrace the vibrant tapestry of Hispanic cultures, weaving it into the fabric of our collective identity. Let us empower each other, celebrate our uniqueness, and forge a path that celebrates diversity, heritage, and inclusivity, making DuPage County a richer and more vibrant place for generations to come.
Connect with Gloria @xicantlchicago@gmail.com
Social Media @xicantlchicago
Puech Ikots is an art collective that should inspire us all. Master teacher and sculptor Carlos Orozco began this collective in Oaxaca several years ago. He found talented artists who carved and hand painted Alebrijes out of copal wood. Most of these artists live in poor rural villages and do not have access to the local tourist markets. Carlos has helped them find opportunities to sell their work in the United States. All proceeds go back to the artist for basic needs.
Oaxaca is one of the poorest states in Mexico and is prone to earthquakes and natural disasters. Just one $50 purchase can help a family of four live for a week. Last September, Puech Ikots partnered with the DuPage Hispanic Alliance and Naperville Sister Cities to sell these Alebrijes at their Naperville Hispanic Heritage Festival. The festival raised over $1000 and helped support over 40 families. His tireless work to help others is an inspiration to us all.
Carlos also hosts classes throughout the greater Chicago area to support and help the artist in Oaxaca. For more information about Puech Ikots or to purchase an Alebrije, please visit, http://www.puechikots.com.
Tell us who inspires you. The DuPage Hispanic Alliance is always searching for stories of local teachers, students, artists, musician, athletes, businessmen, or community leaders who strive to make the world a better place.
Whether it is a businessman who build their business from scratch into a thriving franchise or a pastor who went above and beyond to serve those in need. These stories all show the love, enthusiasm, and beauty of the Latino culture and we want to recognize these individuals.
Click this link to submit your story.
contact@dupagehispanicalliance.com
non-profit 501(c)(3) organization EIN: 92-3976747