By Denise Jiménez
History has seen a multitude of iconic Latino artists including Mexican artists and social critics Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, notable for their art and their passionate love affair.. Without the influence of these remarkable Latino artists, Latin culture would be missing a great amount of passion, joy, and inspiration through vivid color and boundless imagination.
A few local artists thought that influence was lacking in Fort Worth, and took action to increase Latin exposure Jessika Guillen, Raul Rodriguez and Gerardo Contreras, founders of the Latinx Artists Collective, realized there was a demand for art of all forms from a Latinx perspective. The local Fort Worth artists made it their mission to give the people what they wanted
The Latinx Artists Collective is not only introducing new Latin artists to the Fort Worth art scene, but vendors as well. Often setting up shop at FW Blackhouse – located at 1105 Peach St., various vendors and artists promote their work and sell their tasty goods to customers looking for some Latin flavor. Featured vendors include; Everything Living Jewelry by Mayra Martinez, Frescos, who uses LatinX inspired flavors to create lip balm like “Piña Loca”, and Alma’s Paleteria, who serves paletas with an alcoholic twist.
Their biggest event yet was the Latinx Artists Collective’s 1-year Anniversary Show at FW Backhouse last October. The sizeable event included local Fort Worth artists Abraham Cepeda, Tony Krash, Hatziel Flores, Arnoldo Hurtado Escobar, Guillermo Tapia and Tania Vitela. Along with large assortment of Latin artists, vendors and even Mi Familia Vota attended the event. Mi Familia Vota is an organization that advocates on social and economic issues that impact the Latino community, including immigration and workers’ rights.
According to Latinx Artists Collective’s Instagram, @latinohustle performers DJ Bilal, DJ Athena and DJ Priest have even performed at past events.
Jessika Guillen, Raul Rodriguez and Gerardo Contreras of Latinx Artists Collective have given a new avenue of exposure for Latino Musicians, Artists, Retailers, and Food vendors, helping pass on the Latin Culture for all to enjoy. No matter the background, everyone appreciates good music, tasty snacks and remarkable art.
