Tune into this video to see how artist Luis MacKinney uses his creative expression to champion health equity and address critical issues within the Latinx community, particularly those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and its ongoing effects.

What you'll discover in this video:

• Healing Through Art: Learn about Luis's transition from using art as a personal coping mechanism to engaging wider community involvement. Hear his story of how art provided solace pre and during the COVID-19 pandemic and inspired him to guide others in starting their artistic journeys.
• Art as Social Commentary: Explore Luis's impactful art that speaks on vital topics like mental health. See how his work not only raises awareness but also sparks important conversations, fostering a more informed and compassionate community.
• Empowering the Community: Luis believes that everyone has the resources to begin their art practice—the key is to take that first step. Get inspired by his encouragement and practical advice for aspiring artists in the Latinx community and beyond.

Join us to understand the transformative power of art in promoting health equity and initiating social change.

This Durham Creative Voices Rising episode is proudly supported by Bull City Strong and its Say Something Strong Project. Bull City Strong is a community-based partnership aimed at reducing the increased risk of COVID-19 among historically marginalized populations in Durham County, including Black and Hispanic communities. This podcast is brought to you by Antonio Alanis Art, where we're dedicated to amplifying artists' voices and fostering wellness within our community through the arts.

Join us in this interview with Cornelio Campos, a painter and muralist dedicated to using his work for social change and community building. In this episode, Cornelio shares how he leverages artistic expression to connect diverse communities, creating shared experiences that bridge cultural and social barriers. He discusses the educational power of art in raising awareness about critical issues that impact health equity, which include immigration, social justice, and cultural pride for Hispanic/Latin American immigrants in North Carolina. Cornelio also explores his commitment to celebrating cultural diversity through his artwork, which honors his culture and heritage while using the arts to educate others, thus helping to build a more inclusive community narrative. As an advocate for social change, Cornelio uses his art to highlight injustices and inspire discussions that lead to meaningful community reforms and greater equity.

Don’t miss this deep dive into how Cornelio’s art aims for a lasting impact, instilling that art can be an organizing tool and the first step in creating social change for his Latin American community. Tune in to see how art can be a powerful catalyst for community transformation and social action.

This Durham Creative Voices Rising episode is proudly supported by Bull City Strong and its Say Something Strong Project. Bull City Strong is a community-based partnership aimed at reducing the increased risk of COVID-19 among historically marginalized populations in Durham County, including Black and Hispanic communities. This podcast is brought to you by Antonio Alanis Art, where we're dedicated to amplifying artists' voices and fostering wellness within our community through the arts.

In his interview, Willie Contraband discusses his role as an artist, writer, public speaker, and social entrepreneur focused on promoting health equity and community healing through art. Willie recounts his journey into the arts, starting with his engagement in spoken word poetry during a dark time, and using it as a way to bounce back. His project, "SWIM," (Spoken Words in Motion) symbolizes navigating life's challenges and finding resilience through music.

Willie emphasizes the role of art in building community connections, understanding, and healing, particularly highlighting its importance during the isolating times of the COVID-19 pandemic. He details his involvement in various artistic projects, including spoken word performances, which foster dialogue and enhance public spaces, making art accessible to multidisciplinary, historically excluded artistic voices.

Furthermore, Willie talks about his mental health-focused arts programming and collaborations. These efforts are designed to give people the tools to express themselves and share their stories, which he views as essential steps toward achieving a healthier, more inclusive community.

Through his creative endeavors, Willie underscores the transformative power of art in overcoming social barriers and creating shared spaces for impactful dialogue and understanding. His work exemplifies how art can be a powerful catalyst for social change, community engagement, and personal and collective healing.

This Durham Creative Voices Rising episode is proudly supported by Bull City Strong and its Say Something Strong Project. Bull City Strong is a community-based partnership aimed at reducing the increased risk of COVID-19 among historically marginalized populations in Durham County, including Black and Hispanic communities. This podcast is brought to you by Antonio Alanis Art, where we're dedicated to amplifying artists' voices and fostering wellness within our community through the arts.