Sharing Culture and Community Through Art
In Part 1 of our interview, we talk to Erika Carranza.Originally from Jalisco Mexico, Erika spent her childhood feeding a love for art through a self-taught approach to drawing and painting murals. She describes herself as an autodidact, plastic artist, muralist and promoter of recreational art. After graduating from school in México, Erika continued her studies at Moorpark College in California. She has worked with faux finishes and performs mural restoration for commercial and residential clients. Inspired by the spirit of her ancestors and guided by the legacy of artisan hands and artists from Jalisco, she continues to create art that honors her roots. Her style interweaves cultural symbols, colors, wisdom, memory and purpose into her art. Working as an Advocate and Case Manager in Domestic Violence shelters with individuals who are survivors, Erika developed a class based in theory behind color that focuses on art as self-care. Since moving to Washington in 2012, Erika has connected as a volunteer with the nonprofit community and shares her culture and love of art to incite creativity in her students.
For more information, look for Erika Carranza on Facebook or go to fpcommunitycommons.org and look for “Calendar” under the “Programs” link at the top of the page.