Uplifting Local Latino Artists

by Max McMillen

Unidos por el Arte is an initiative by Julia de Burgos Cultural Arts Center (JDBCAC) designed to uplift and support Latino artists of all disciplines and stages across Northeast Ohio. Through this program, we provide developmental opportunities, collaborative spaces, essential resources and more to help artists grow in their creative careers.

One artist who found her voice through Unidos por el Arte is Nebeska “Becky” Aviles.

Becky discovered JDBCAC in 2010, seeking a space where her children could engage with their Puerto Rican heritage. As they participated in guitar lessons, the Latina Image Leadership Program, and the dance group, JDBCAC quickly became a second home for her family.

Her connection to the center deepened when she joined the board and began assisting with the Puerto Rican Parade. It was through this work that she uncovered a passion for arts and crafts, finding joy in painting larger-than-life parade puppets and crafting whimsical piragua carts—traditional Puerto Rican pushcarts used to sell snow cones.

As she became more involved in parades, Becky felt a growing desire to bring Puerto Rican vibrancy and culture to a wider audience. Determined to make an impact, she purchased a vejigante mask and a large foam head from a master artist in Puerto Rico. Inspired by the artistry, Becky set out to learn the tradition herself. In 2023, she received a Unidos por el Arte grant from JDBCAC, using the funds to bring Kenneth Meléndez from Puerto Rico to Cleveland for a personal master class in vejigante mask making.

Becky’s journey is a testament to JDBCAC’s mission to uplift and empower Latino artists through Unidos por el Arte. Whether through grants, workshops, or collaborative spaces, we remain committed to providing artists with the resources and opportunities they need to grow. From fostering creative expression in families to empowering individuals in their artistic careers, JDBCAC continues to support, inspire, and connect our community through the arts.

JULIA DE BURGOS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER
2800 Archwood Avenue
Cleveland Ohio 44109
juliadeburgos.org
info@juliadeburgos.org
216.894.5664