In this episode, we sit down with Stephanie Mercedes, a talented queer Latinx artist based in Washington D.C. Mercedes is an interdisciplinary artist who explores various mediums such as sound, performance, metal casting, welding, and musical composition. With a deep connection to her family history and Argentine ancestry, her performances and installations ruminate on that country’s history, particularly los desaparecidos, as well as colonization, dictatorships, and juntas prevalent throughout Latin America. Additionally, Mercedes shares her unique artistic process of transforming weapons into musical instruments and sculptures, and how she intersects art, history, and activism.

Episode Credits:
Host: Norma Sorto
Guest: Stephanie Mercedes
Episode Interviewers: Estrellita Soto Flores and Flavia Olivera
Episode Scriptwriter: Flavia Olivera
Episode Editor: Claudia Peralta Torres

Music by Blue Dot Sessions:
Sour Mash - Golden Grass
Cholate - Arizona Moon

For updates on episodes and Latinx events in the D.C. area, follow us on Instagram @holaculturadc, and don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to “Artistas in the Capital.” To get involved in Latinx arts, culture, and humanities in D.C., sign up to join our SPEL program and visit holacultura.com.

In this episode, we talk with D.C.-based artist, writer, and educator Samuel “Sami” Miranda. Through his visual art and poetry, Miranda showcases his Puerto Rican roots and South Bronx upbringing. We also discuss his latest book, "Protection from Erasure," a collection of poems that immortalizes the significance of everyday moments. Miranda passionately discusses his personal experiences, from his Bronx origins to the evolving D.C. arts scene, and his dedication to inspiring students through the power of art and poetry.

Episode Credits:
Host: Norma Sorto
Guest: Samuel “Sammi” Miranda
Episode Interviewers: Joycelin Salmeron, Evelyn Margarito-Casas,
Kailah Floyd, Ramona Santana
Episode Scriptwriter: Flavia Olivera
Episode Editor: Claudia Peralta Torres

Music by Blue Dot Sessions:
Butterstone - The Gran Dias
Cholate - Arizona Moon

For updates on episodes and Latinx events in the D.C. area, follow us on Instagram @holaculturadc, and don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to “Artistas in the Capital.” To get involved in Latinx arts, culture, and humanities in D.C., sign up to join our SPEL program and visit holacultura.com.

In this episode, we sit down with Marta Pérez-García, a passionate Puerto Rican artist and art teacher based in Washington, D.C. Marta takes immense pride in her Puerto Rican identity and channels her creativity through various artistic mediums. However, her artistic journey goes beyond mere self-expression. Marta's resolve was ignited at a young age when she witnessed the heartbreaking story of a woman who fell victim to domestic violence. Instead of remaining silent, Marta knew she had to use her artistic talent to denounce such atrocities.

Episode Credits:
Host: Norma Sorto
Guest: Marta Pérez-García
Episode Interviewers: Cristela Bonilla, Flavia Olivera, Jubilee Lucero, and Claudia Peralta Torres
Episode Scriptwriter: Flavia Olivera
Episode Editor: Claudia Peralta Torres

Music by Blue Dot Sessions:
Butterstone - The Gran Dias
Cholate - Arizona Moon

For updates on episodes and Latinx events in the D.C. area, follow us on Instagram @holaculturadc, and don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to “Artistas in the Capital.” To get involved in Latinx arts, culture, and humanities in D.C., sign up to join our SPEL program and visit holacultura.com.