Struggling with your MFA application? Learn how a multi-disciplinary artist went from repeated rejections to a fully-funded Berkeley MFA. Plus: see the actual portfolio that worked.
Read MorePersonal Share
Arte Sana Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer Circulo Retreat at Wild Places /
From left to right starting with the back row: Me, Xtal Azul, M. Zamora, Batul True Heart, Yoli, and Tlahuizpapalotl
This past weekend will forever be etched in my memory as one of the most profound and transformative experiences of my life. I had the incredible privilege of co-organizing & participating in a retreat on Tule River Indian Tribe land in central California at Wild Places, a sanctuary dedicated to the well-being of plants, animals, and our two-spirit Native and Indigiqueer communities.
The retreat, organized by the Arte Sana cooperative, was made possible through the generous support of the Artists Adaptability Circles program. Through this program, we formed a tight-knit community to share stories, dreams, and visions as two-spirit, queer, and indigiqueer artists and community leaders. We met for over a year and, as a part of this process, decided to host a retreat that would support us in creating a nurturing space that would replenish our spirits and enable us to continue doing our vital work. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, one of our members was not able to join us for the retreat but was with us in Spirit.
Building Community and Sharing Medicine:
Guided by our shared vision of a healing and nurturing retreat, we invited a couple of gifted facilitators to guide us through practices that would deepen our connection to ourselves, each other, and the land.
The first facilitator, Batul True Heart, a death doula, medicine maker, and community leader, introduced us to the sacred practice of creating all-natural Agua Florida (Florida Water). Through a vibrant blend of spices, fruits, herbs, and flowers placed gorgeously ok a sacred altar by the Tule river, Batul shared the art of crafting this potent elixir while also guiding us through the 13 Aires by Estela Roman. We engaged in a powerful talking circle, sharing the Aires that resonated with us at that moment, and receiving reflection and guidance from Batul. It was a transformative experience that nurtured introspection and connection within the group.
Our second facilitator, Yoli, an artist, herbalist, and educator, brought a playful and performative energy to the retreat. Yoli, embodying the mischievous elf being "Baby," led us through a joyful and psychedelic experience. We engaged in bubble gun cleansings, adorned ourselves with vibrant outfits, painted our faces, communed with medicinal honey, and shared open-hearted moments by the river. Yoli facilitated a ceremony that encouraged us to embrace joy, pleasure, and ceremony as a collective. As a culmination, we immersed ourselves in the Tule river together, experiencing a profound sense of unity and vulnerability.
Unexpected Encounters with Nature:
Nature blessed us with extraordinary moments of connection throughout the retreat. Xico, who is one of Wild Place’s stewards, discovered a baby deer fawn in desperate need of care due to a severe injury. With immense compassion, Xico brought the injured fawn into the sanctuary at Wild Places, providing the necessary attention and love until animal rescue experts could offer further support. This unexpected encounter reminded us of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of showing kindness and care to the world around us.
The land itself embraced us, as various creatures visited us during our time at Wild Places. Butterflies and dragonflies danced around us, while hummingbirds, finches, hawks, and turkey vultures mesmerized us with their grace. Squirrels, spiders, and insects went about their daily routines, reminding us of the rich tapestry of life that exists harmoniously in the sanctuary.
Gratitude and Nourishment:
A central aspect of our retreat was gifting ourselves the luxury of having our meals prepared for us. The dedicated staff at Wild Places graciously provided us with a feast of delicious, nutritious, and healthy vegan and non-vegan food. Every meal became an opportunity to connect, share stories, and express gratitude for the abundance we experienced together. The act of communal dining fostered a sense of unity and deepened the bonds we formed throughout the retreat.
Farewell Under the Starry Sky:
As our time together drew to a close, we gathered for a final evening of sacred songs and prayers. Xtal was kind enough to bring their sacred drum, Wiwa, which helped us offer songs and prayers beneath the enchanting starlit sky. I was so happy when Adriana, who had been our retreat’s wildly talented cook, and had made us the most delicious and magical food, asked to join us in the drum circle. It was a moment of profound connection, where our voices harmonized in unity and our intentions soared to the cosmos.
The retreat on Tule land at Wild Places was a journey of healing, connection, and renewal. It provided a sanctuary for our souls to rest, replenish, and strengthen our bonds with each other and the natural world. Through the guidance of skilled facilitators, we explored sacred practices, playful experiences, and moments of unexpected encounters with nature. We expressed deep gratitude for the nourishment provided by the staff at Wild Places and concluded our retreat with a powerful communal prayer beneath the starry night sky. This weekend will forever remain etched in our hearts as a luminous and transformative experience, igniting our spirits to continue the important work we do within our communities.
Five Valuable Lessons I Learned from Le Tigre /
Me and Clea Duvall, who was hanging out at Le Tigre’s merch table at the Pomona Glasshouse in 2003
Last night, on July 9, 2023, I had the incredible opportunity to witness Le Tigre perform at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles, 20 years after my last encounter with them at the Glasshouse in Pomona back in 2003. This experience was both surreal and uncanny as I couldn't help but notice the striking similarities between the political climates of then and now, while also acknowledging the progress made in positive and progressive ways. In this blog post, I want to share the five valuable lessons I learned from Le Tigre as a young queer person and how they continue to resonate with me today.
Kathleen Hannah performing live at The Glasshouse in Pomona in 2003.
It's Okay to Be Mad and Disillusioned: Living in the midst of an ugly political time marked by rising fascism, anti-LGBTQ rhetoric, and restrictive laws, it's understandable to feel anger, disillusionment, disappointment, and rage. Le Tigre's music provides a powerful outlet for expressing these emotions and validates the frustration we experience in our current political climate. While the era of George Bush seemed problematic, today's conservative party exhibits unprecedented levels of racism, homophobia, and misogyny. Le Tigre's music reminds us that it's okay to be furious and motivates us to channel that energy into fighting for a better future.
Your Art, Voice, and Presence are Needed: In a world that often encourages marginalized individuals to stay silent and small, Le Tigre emphasizes the importance of taking up space, sharing our experiences, and using our voices to demand change. They remind us that our art matters and that we must be bold, critical, and unafraid to express our grievances. By utilizing the mediums and platforms available to us, we can make a significant impact and shape a more inclusive and accepting world.
DIY and Punk Aesthetics as Empowerment: Amid a society that values formalization, professionalism, and mainstream success, Le Tigre's embrace of DIY and punk aesthetics becomes a powerful form of resistance. Doing things for ourselves, not waiting for external validation, and creating our own scenes and communities are acts of liberation. These ideals challenge problematic hierarchies and allow us to define our own values and spaces, both within the underground and in more conservative environments. Museums and larger institutions benefit from the energy generated in DIY spaces, reminding us to foster and merge these aesthetics and values into all cultural spheres.
Solidarity within Marginalized Communities: Le Tigre taught us that queer people, trans folks, women, and other marginalized individuals of the global majority outnumber those who seek to oppress and diminish us. They instilled in us the belief that we have each other's backs and the power to create spaces of safety and resilience. As we forge connections and support networks, we defy societal norms and shape new realities where everyone can thrive, experiment, and take risks. Together, we can build a future that celebrates diversity and allows marginalized voices to be seen, heard, and uplifted.
The Personal is Deeply Political: Le Tigre has consistently used their platform to shed light on how queer, femme, trans, and artists of color often face exclusion and pigeonholing within mainstream society. By sharing personal struggles and exposing the disparities in the music and art industries, they have sparked crucial conversations about diversity, inclusion, and sustainability. Le Tigre's advocacy emphasizes the need for art to be a viable and sustainable path for artists, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to thrive creatively.
Le Tigre's powerful music and activism have shaped the lives of countless people, offering inspiration, validation, and a sense of community for us. From embracing anger to advocating for inclusivity and sustainability in the arts, their influence is profound and timeless. As we navigate through today's challenging political climate, let us remember the valuable lessons learned from Le Tigre and continue their legacy by using our art, voices, and presence to effect positive change in the world.
Click here to see more images from my first time seeing Le Tigre at The Glasshouse in Pomona in 2003.
Click below to see Le Tigre perform their song F.Y.R. live at The Greek Theater in Los Angeles in 2023.
Embracing the Freedom of Art: Reclaiming Our Mark-Making /
When I was in second grade, an incident occurred that left a lasting impact on my artistic journey. My teacher called my parents into school to discuss the messiness of my art and expressed concern about my abilities. That experience instilled within me a deep fear of making marks, planting the idea that my artistic expression was flawed and that there were strict rules dictating right and wrong ways to create art. However, as I grew older and pursued art as a passion and even as an educator, I came to realize that many people carry similar burdens—self-imposed restrictions and boundaries when it comes to art-making. In recent times, I had a profound experience that reminded me of the true essence of art and the freedom it offers. It became clear to me that there are no right or wrong marks in art; instead, there are marks, and they hold profound meaning. Art is a powerful tool for healing, nourishment, and self-expression—a mirror that reflects our hearts, spirits, and unique creative process.
Breaking Free from Self-Imposed Boundaries:
For years, I carried the weight of my teacher's words, believing that my mark-making wasn't acceptable and that there were predetermined standards I needed to adhere to. These constrictions limited my artistic exploration, stifled my creativity, and hindered my ability to embrace the full potential of art. It wasn't until I embarked on my journey as an artist and educator that I witnessed countless individuals grappling with similar self-imposed limitations. I realized that societal expectations, comparisons to others, and fear of judgment often play a significant role in shaping our views of what art should or shouldn't be.
The Liberation of Art:
However, a recent artistic encounter shattered these preconceived notions. In this transformative experience, I felt a profound sense of freedom, liberation, and connectedness. I discovered the true essence of art—its ability to heal, nourish, and embrace. I understood that art is not confined to a set of rules or aesthetics; it transcends such limitations. Art is a language that speaks to our souls, allowing us to communicate in ways that words alone cannot capture. Each mark we make carries personal significance and meaning, making it inherently valuable, regardless of how it may align with external standards.
Subjectivity and Interchangeable Meaning:
Art is a realm where subjectivity reigns supreme. The beauty of artistic expression lies in its interpretive nature. What may resonate deeply with one person may evoke a completely different response in another. Our art becomes a reflection of our inner selves, a testament to our unique perspectives and experiences. It is a celebration of the diverse tapestry of human existence. The meaning we imbue into our art is entirely personal, fluid, and ever-changing. It is this flexibility that makes art such a powerful means of self-discovery and self-expression.
Reclaiming Art and Embracing Freedom:
In the process of creating art, we reclaim our autonomy and redefine what it means to be an artist. We reject the notion of right or wrong, and instead, we revel in the boundless possibilities that art offers. We embrace the truth that art is not limited to a select few, but rather, it is a birthright bestowed upon all of us. Art becomes an avenue for liberation, an escape from the confines of self-doubt and societal expectations. It is through art that we find solace, joy, and the courage to be unapologetically ourselves.
My journey as an artist and educator has led me to the realization that art is a powerful force capable of breaking down barriers, both internal and external. The experience of overcoming my fear and embracing the freedom of art has been transformative. It has allowed me to shed the constrictions that once held me back and recognize the limitless potential that resides within each of us. Let us reclaim art as a mirror—a reflection of our hearts, spirits, and unique creative processes. Let us revel in the freedom it brings, and through our mark-making, shape a world where artistic expression knows no boundaries. Art is freedom, and we, the artists, are the embodiment of that freedom.
Embracing My Multi-Hyphenate Career Path: Balancing Art, Mental Health Care, Religion & Spirituality /
Memoria Sonora, 2018 with artist Alexia Miranda at El Pueblo Historical Monument as part of Pacific Standard Time:Live Art LA/LA in Los Angeles, California.
Throughout my life, I have been constantly reminded of the conventional and traditional way of selecting and following a career. However, despite these societal and familial pressures to do so, I have always been determined to avoid the constraints of conventionality. As a result, I am now living where I can delve into all facets of my being and explore different paths without limitation or stagnancy. My pursuit of a non-traditional approach has allowed me to experience life in a genuinely unique manner that is not available to those who follow typical routes.
As an individual with many interests and proficiencies, my schedule is replete with diverse engagements. Throughout one day of every week, I discharge the role of a mental health counselor, offering counsel and succor to those grappling with sundry issues related to psychological well-being. Apart from this, a considerable fraction of my time is invested in artistic pursuits. My creations have been showcased in numerous galleries and exhibitions. Furthermore, I have developed expertise in crafting and vending editions of my digitally native work as crypto art.
To expand my knowledge base and share my ideas with others, I visit universities where I engage with students on creativity, magic, divination, mental health, and other similar concepts. Furthermore, I conduct workshops on these topics and teach classes and offer artist talks to those who wish to learn more about me and my diverse practices.
As someone passionate about spirituality, I provide spiritual services through Our Sacred Web. In this donation-based practice, individuals can receive tarot readings or have me officiate their weddings or host ceremonies. My tarot reading skills were even sought after by the LA Times when they commissioned me to perform readings for the city of Los Angeles.
My varied interests enable me to frequently appear worldwide, where I am invited to speak about topics such as witchcraft and creativity.
Despite my passion for this multi-hyphenate career path, I often must classify my practices and separate myself. But I'm taking a stand and refusing to do so. Instead, I want to build a world where having multiple passions and interests is encouraged and supported.
As a contemporary artist in Los Angeles, my work is informed by indigenous futurism, a style that reflects my deep interest in healing and spirituality. As a somatic psychotherapist, I use interdisciplinary education and holistic therapies like mindfulness-based therapy, Hakomi, somatic psychology, and internal family systems to help people heal.
My dream job allows me to integrate my diverse interests and skills rather than forcing me to choose just one. And I'm not alone in this desire. Others like me refuse to "niche down" and instead embrace multidisciplinary career paths.
I've found balance and fulfillment in my work by embracing a multi-hyphenate career path. It can be challenging to juggle multiple roles, but the rewards are worth it. I can pursue my passions, help others, and live a life that feels true to who I am.
Embracing a multi-hyphenate career path is the key to finding balance and fulfillment in work and life. We don't have to choose just one passion or career path - instead, we can embrace our diverse interests and skills to create a career that reflects who we are. Let's build a world where multi-hyphenate career paths are encouraged and celebrated.
Beyond the Classroom: Creating Informal & Ad-Hoc Educational Spaces for Community Building and Resilience /
At my core, I strongly believe in the power of creating communal spaces that allow for personal and societal growth. As an individual and an organization, being adaptable and open to new perspectives is critical in establishing these spaces that promote learning, idea-sharing, and community-building. This belief is the driving force behind my work in creating workshops, ceremonies, artist residencies, and events in a wide range of settings.
One of the most significant benefits of creating educational and communal spaces outside of academic institutions is that it allows for a more diverse range of voices to be heard. In my experience, when people from different backgrounds and experiences come together, new ideas are formed, and we can learn from one another in ways that are impossible in a traditional classroom setting. This leads to a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of complex issues and can result in more effective problem-solving, community-building, and cross-pollination.
To me, creating these informal and ad-hoc communal spaces is not just about providing an alternative to academic institutions but rather about expanding our understanding of how knowledge and wisdom can be acquired. We must break free from the idea that formalized spaces are the only places where learning and growth can occur. Instead, we need to cultivate spaces that exist both within and outside of formal structures to create a healthy and resilient community that values the diversity of voices and experiences.
In addition to creating spaces outside of formalized institutions, I believe it's equally important to establish these types of educational and communal spaces within them. By creating spaces within academic institutions that are open to the wider community, we can bridge the gap between academia and the broader community while also providing access to the resources and knowledge available within the institution.
Throughout my career, I have organized events in a variety of settings, including galleries, museums, healing spaces, therapy centers, nonprofits, businesses, music festivals, and more. Each space presents unique challenges and opportunities, but they all serve to create a sense of belonging and connection. Time and time again, I've witnessed people showing up and offering care for each other, finding solutions for others where they previously felt stuck or alone, and even sharing messages gleaned from personal journeys with others that leave a deep impact on them. These types of group experiences can be profound, moving, emotional, and uncanny, and they illustrate the power of community building.
As someone who has earned two Master's degrees, I recognize the value of formal education, but I also see the limitations of traditional academic institutions. That's why I am passionate about creating non-formal educational opportunities that promote a sense of community and foster learning beyond the classroom. By cultivating educational and communal spaces both within and outside of formalized institutions, we can create a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of complex issues, while also connecting with others outside of it. Weaving webs within the interstices of institutional and relational systems.
Take a look at some of the past workshops I’ve been able to offer. I’d love to encourage you to check out my upcoming events section to keep up to date with different opportunities to connect within and outside of these spaces and invite you to join my newsletter to be the first to know when these opportunities arise. Also, if you’re interested in inviting me to organize a workshop at your institutions and/or do an artist talk or presentation on my work, please feel free to reach out and contact me.