Creators Fiesta Studio: El Mariachi as a Contemporary Icon Community Mural (Day 1)

In this hands-on, drop-in workshop, educators will explore the cultural and artistic significance of the mariachi as a contemporary icon, drawing inspiration from the works of San Antonio-based artists Luis Valderas and Kim Bishop, through a community mural project.

As part of the Creators Fiesta Studio arts experience, attendees are invited to drop in at any point during the session to contribute to a community mural piece inspired by Valderas's father, known as "El Mariachi." The inspiration for this community art project can be seen on the side of a 5-story building right down the street from the Convention Center!

The first day of this collaborative art-making activity will consist of “painting with tissue paper” to add color and to create the background and foreground for two large artworks based on “El Mariachi.” Plus learn how these local artists have integrated cultural heritage with creative expression in the numerous community artworks they have created!

The second day, the community art-making will continue, with participants adding icons and symbols to the community mural piece through a stamping and drawing activity.

Work side by side with fellow creators – stay for 10 minutes or stay for an hour to create and watch the mural grow! Through this community project, participants will gain insights into integrating cultural identity, community engagement, and the arts into their educational practices. Plus, they will have access to a lesson plan to create a community mural with their students!

All participants in the community mural project will be eligible to enter into a raffle on Tuesday afternoon, where the two completed artworks will be given away to participants to take back to their school, classroom, or home.

Luis Valderas, a first-generation Mexican-American artist from South Texas, often incorporates elements of Mesoamerican mythology and social commentary into his multidisciplinary creative practice. Together with Kim Bishop, an experienced arts educator and public artist, they have led numerous community-focused art projects that blend cultural heritage with creative expression. Read more about them in their bios!