Artistas in the Capital
Delve into the world of D.C. Latinx artists with “Artistas in the Capital,” a monthly podcast hosted by Norma Sorto, former SPEL intern, and presented by Hola Cultura. This podcast features insightful interviews exploring the diverse experiences and perspectives of local visual artists, dancers, printmakers, authors, poets and more. Join Hola Cultura’s SPEL program participants who conducted the interviews and bring you stories directly from the artists themselves, showcasing the voices of Latinx creatives.
Don’t miss these wide-ranging conversations about art, identity, intersectionality and heritage that shed light on the invaluable contributions of Latinx artists beyond their art and performances in our nation’s capital.
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Artistas Trailer
“Artistas in the Capital” features interviews with Latinx artists in the Washington D.C. area. Hosted by Norma Sorto and based on interviews from Hola Cultura’s SPEL program, this podcast will introduce you to a variety of local Latinx artists, from dancers to printmakers, authors, poets and more.
Episode 1: Queer Latinx Artistry and Innovation with Armando Lopez-Bircann
Our first episode features D.C.-based XR (extended reality) artist Armando Lopez-Bircann (they/them), who grew up in the Dominican Republic with limited access to the world of high art. Despite this, Armando’s innovative, technologically driven approach to artistic creation challenges the limits of queer Latinx expression. Join us as we explore their creative process and unique perspective on the intersection of queer identity and art.
Episode 2: Exploring the Social Impact of Telenovelas with Hannah Müssemann
In our second episode, we sit down with Hannah Müssemann, a researcher from GUMELAB (History Transfer through Entertainment Media in Latin America. Laboratory for Memory and Digital Media Research) in Berlin. Hannah shares her insights on the social impact of telenovelas, a distinctly Latin-American phenomenon that originated in cigar and textile factories over a century ago and continues to shape Latinx society today. Discover how GUMELAB studies the portrayal of Latin American history in telenovelas and its influence on people’s memories and perceptions, both in their home countries and abroad.
Episode 3: Empowering Latino Voices with Nicolás Kanellos
In this episode, we sit down with Nicolás Kanellos, the founder of Arte Público Press, to discuss his longstanding commitment to uplifting Latino voices in the literary world. We explore his journey from founding a Latino literary magazine during the Civil Rights movement to launching bestselling authors like Sandra Cisneros. We also dive into the complex issues surrounding Latino representation in literature, such as the need for more Spanish-language books published in the United States and how through his work, Nicolás has recovered written material in multiple mediums, archiving the legacy of Latinos in the United States through literature.
Episode 4: Art, Advocacy and Identity with Gabriel Mata
In this episode, Gabriel Mata‘s journey as an undocumented immigrant and artist advocate leads us from Mexico to Southern California, to his current role in Washington, D.C. Dance became his voice as he navigated his undocumented status and queer identity. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the transformative power of dance, the challenges faced by undocumented immigrants and his unwavering commitment to uplifting his community through art and advocacy.
Episode 5: Julio Valdez’s Artistic Evolution and Impact
In this episode, Julio Valdez, an artist from the Dominican Republic, shares his experience as an artist and how his creations have evolved over time. From serene water prints capturing the beauty of his Caribbean homeland to thought-provoking artwork reflecting the politically charged atmosphere during the pandemic, Julio strives to inspire hope in those who encounter his art, initiating meaningful conversations and driving positive change in society. Learn more about the deep connections between art and social commentary, and witness Julio’s unwavering passion.
Episode 6: Alejandro Góngora’s Journey with Corazón Folklórico DC
In this episode, we talk with Alejandro Góngora, the founder and artistic director of Corazón Folklórico DC, a non-profit dance company that showcases the vibrant artistry of Mexican Ballet Folkórico. For Alejandro, researching and choreographing folkórico is an integral part of his career. Through his unwavering passion for dance and community, Alejandro has created an inclusive space where individuals from diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds can freely express themselves through the transformative power of dance.
Episode 7: The Latina Entrepreneurs Behind Dutidú
In this episode, we join Marie Claire Vasquez Durán and Maria Victoria Abreu Lugar, two Dominican entrepreneurs, as they share their inspiring journey of creating Dutidú. Born out of their shared cultural heritage and passion for the arts, Dutidú is a unique venture that celebrates Latin culture and hopes to fill a gap in the children’s toy market. Discover how their diverse backgrounds in international politics and sustainable development converge with their entrepreneurial spirit as they navigate the challenges of building a business that blends creativity, cultural identity and entrepreneurship.
Episode 8: César Maxit’s Journey in Street Art and Social Justice
Originally from Argentina and now living in Washington, D.C., César Maxit shares his journey from studying architecture to devoting himself full-time to helping organizations express their demands for environmental and climate justice, human rights and immigrant rights. As an artist and communication specialist, he uses visuals, sculptures and paintings to convey powerful messages. In this episode, César shares his experiences organizing groups of artists, securing spaces for their creations and engaging in insightful conversations with fellow artists and activists.
Episode 9: Unmasking Latino Anti-Black Bias with Tanya Katerí Hernández
Studies reveal that darker-skinned Latinos, including Afro-Latinos, encounter discrimination from both within and outside the Latino community. This discrimination takes various forms, from unequal treatment to racial profiling. Our guest, Tanya Katerí Hernández, a professor at Fordham University School of Law, delves into the topic of Latino anti-black bias and the struggle for equality. We also discuss her book, “Racial Innocence: Unmasking Latino Anti-Black Bias and the Struggle for Equality,” where she highlights the untold stories of Afro-Latinos and sheds light on enduring injustices silently faced for far too long.
Episode 10: Marta Pérez-García’s Fight Against Women’s Violence
In this episode, we sit down with Marta Pérez-García, a passionate Puerto Rican artist and art teacher based in Washington, D.C. Marta takes immense pride in her Puerto Rican identity and channels her creativity through various artistic mediums. However, her artistic journey goes beyond mere self-expression. Marta’s resolve was ignited at a young age when she witnessed the heartbreaking story of a woman who fell victim to domestic violence. Instead of remaining silent, Marta knew she had to use her artistic talent to denounce such atrocities.
Episode 11: “Protection from Erasure” – A Conversation with Samuel Miranda
In this episode, we talk with D.C.-based artist, writer and educator Samuel “Sami” Miranda. Through his visual art and poetry, Miranda showcases his Puerto Rican roots and South Bronx upbringing. We also discuss his latest book, “Protection from Erasure,” a collection of poems that immortalizes the significance of everyday moments. Miranda passionately discusses his personal experiences, from his Bronx origins to the evolving D.C. arts scene, and his dedication to inspiring students through the power of art and poetry.
Episode 12: Stephanie Mercedes’ Artistic Response to Gun Violence
In this episode, we sit down with Stephanie Mercedes, a talented queer Latinx artist based in Washington D.C. Mercedes is an interdisciplinary artist who explores various mediums such as sound, performance, metal casting, welding and musical composition. With a deep connection to her family history and Argentine ancestry, her performances and installations ruminate on the country’s history, particularly los desaparecidos, as well as colonization, dictatorships and juntas prevalent throughout Latin America. Additionally, Mercedes shares her unique artistic process of transforming weapons into musical instruments and sculptures, and how she intersects art, history and activism.
Meet the Artistas
*Note: Corazón Folklórico DC refers to Corazón Folklórico Dance Company.
Production Team
Podcast Host: Norma Sorto
Podcast Interviewer: Hola Cultura’s SPEL Teams
Podcast Producer: Claudia Peralta Torres
Podcast Script Writer: Flavia Olivera
Podcast Director: Christine MacDonald, Executive Director
Podcast Copywriter: Laura Diaz
Podcast Editing: Claudia Peralta Torres & Norma Sorto
Social Media/Design: Laura Diaz, Gabriela Mendez & Claudia Peralta Torres