'Arte de la Pinta' paints picture of creative expression in confinement

Art has the power to transcend barriers — even those as formidable as prison walls.

From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31, “Arte de la Pinta” invites the community to a gallery pop-up at Centro Cultural in Cornelius, 1110 N. Adair St., presenting evocative art created by incarcerated individuals.

Offering a glimpse into the unique perspectives of those in confinement, the gallery acts as a canvas for the talents of those that often go unseen and speaks to the importance of creative expression in isolation.

Presented by clothing brand Brown Sueños, owner Lorelei Ruiz proposed the idea as an initiative to celebrate local talent and culture.

“This event is a celebration of creativity, Indigenous and Chicano culture, and community," Ruiz said in a release. "I am honored to provide a platform for incarcerated artists to showcase their work and bring the community together to celebrate local talent and culture.”

Ruiz came up with the event while taking part in the Tualatin Valley Creates Arts & Culture Leadership Incubator 2023 Cohort — a workshop that guides local artists to develop as creatives and community activists.

“It has been exciting to watch (Ruiz) build her brand and to see her idea of Arte de la Pinta become a reality," Elisa Joy Payne, Board Chair of Tualatin Valley Creates, said in a release. "She is an inspiration to other young artists and entrepreneurs."

Growing up, Ruiz struggled to find role models, with many men in her family being incarcerated.

"I grew up around so much poverty, no education and no understanding of how to run a business. Working in the fields picking strawberries to support my family at age 12 and facing many other hardships pushed me to start my own business. I wanted to create representation for our people through positive work and events,” Ruiz said.

Even while in prison, Ruiz’s uncle supported her dream, and now she uses her business to drive change through creativity.

“What I hope to achieve with Brown Sueños and Arte de la Pinta is to educate people about the incarceration system and what leads individuals to prison. I want to create positive representation through art for our Chicano, Mexican and Indigenous communities and beyond,” Ruiz said.

“I could have easily ended up like anyone in my family who has served time. Crimes don’t always start with the act itself; they can begin with an environment that lacks support and opportunities,” she added.

Alongside art on display, the event will also feature music from DJs, local vendors, community resources, free art supplies, free snacks and a lowrider car and bike show, among other activities.

Arte de la Pinta is made possible through the Centro Cultural Artist Residency Program, alongside a grant from the Regional Arts and Culture Council.

Those seeking more information about the pop-up or interested in getting involved can reach Ruiz at brownsuenosbrand@gmail.com .