Gloria Contreras and the DuPage Hispanic Alliance bring Mexican art and culture to Naperville
This summer, the DuPage Hispanic Alliance is partnering with the Naperville Public Library to bring artist and sculptor Gloria Contreras to Naperville.
Contreras started Xicantl in 2021 and has already made a huge splash in Chicago with her colorful Alebrijes and Catrinas. She was featured in the Mexican Independence Day celebration in Cicero, Arts in the Dark Parade in Chicago, and Day of the Dead Festival in both Blue Island and in Homewood.
Her work has also been exhibited at the Tamale Hut Gallery, Mexican Cultural Center, and Chicago city hall. Her passion for Mexican culture has shown through as a keynote speaker at several Chicago area schools.
Alebrijes are brightly colored, mythical creatures whose forms are a combination of various animals.
In the 1930s, Mexico City's famous piñata maker Pedro Linares López developed an infection that caused him to suffer high fevers with hallucinations. It was in these fever dreams that he saw these fantastical creatures. Once he was well, the artist used his trade to bring them to life using papier-mâché. Contreras continues this tradition in his work.
Contreras will display a large Alebrije in the 95th Street Library for Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 to Oct. 15).
For a DIY experience, check out one of Contreras' several workshops in Naperville or Chicago.
"As president of the DuPage Hispanic Alliance, I am thrilled and filled with joy to see our vision come to life in our community. Together, we are making a positive impact, empowering our fellow Latinos, and fostering unity within our vibrant community," Maria Rodriguez said.
The Naperville Public Libraries will kick off Hispanic Heritage Month by showcasing Latino artist Pat Nunez at the 95th Street Library.
Throughout the month, children will be allowed to participate in a "Hispanic Adventures" coloring contest for prizes.
The library will also play Loteria (Mexican bingo), have Buen Provecho story time, and coordinate Day of the Dead activities.
Children's activities also will be offered on Saturday, Oct. 28, after bilingual story time and an Ofrenda (altar to celebrate the deceased for the Day of the Dead) will be on display at Nichols Library from Oct. 28 to Nov. 2.
Be sure to stop by the Riverwalk Fine Art Fair on Sept. 16-17 to participate in fun Latino-inspired children's arts and crafts sponsored by the Arts DuPage, Pura Vida Talk and the DuPage Hispanic Alliance. Attendees will also get a chance to preview a new coloring book, "Hispanic Adventures" and the opportunity to meet Alebrije artist Contreras.
This Spanish and English coloring and activity book brings Hispanic culture through its vibrant colors! A wide variety of landmarks, and biodiversity will be explored throughout 70 pages of coloring adventure.
To learn more about these and upcoming events, visit the DuPage Hispanic Alliance website at www.dupagehispanicalliance.com or follow www.facebook.com/dupagehispanicalliance.
The DuPage Hispanic Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to showcasing Latino culture through events, activities and cultural experiences in the western suburbs.