The Buffalo Exchange Arts Award encourages creativity and innovation in the arts in Southern Arizona.
It was established by Buffalo Exchange owner Kerstin Block and her late husband, Spencer Block, to encourage creativity, innovation, and excellence in the arts. The focus of the award rotates each year between emerging artists in the performing arts and visual arts.
Artists are nominated and selected by two separate panels of experts familiar with the Southern Arizona Arts scene. Since 1994, almost $250,000 have been awarded through this fund held at the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona.
This year, the Buffalo Exchange Arts Award honors Yaqui Artist Luis Rodriguez. Luis is an Artist, Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Screen Printer, Father, and Co-Owner of SHOP1519. As the son of a documented Mexican immigrant and a Yaqui-American, he represents the migration of people between the Southwestern US and Mexico. He grew up watching his uncle participate in Yaqui Ceremonies as a Maaso (Deer Dancer) and his art is regularly inspired by this and other Yaqui traditions.
In his art, Luis makes an effort to bring awareness to the ongoing struggles of the Yaqui and other Indigenous People and to represent past struggles that have been overcome. His work currently consists mainly of digital paintings, but also features drawings, watercolor paintings, acrylic painting, and garments.
Virtual Award Presentation
Please join us on Tuesday, January 26th, as we honor Luis at the 26th Annual Buffalo Exchange Arts Award Celebration.
What: Virtual Buffalo Exchange Arts Award Celebration
When: Tuesday, January 26th | 5:30 – 6:30 PM
Where: Via Zoom https://zoom.us/j/97132421648
