When you walk into Xico Inc. in downtown Phoenix, you are greeted by a variety of colorful art on display in the large studio space.
But the most important thing about the art is the communities represented and the artists who created the work.
The Arizona group aims to preserve Latino and Indigenous culture through art. Xico's Interim Executive Director Nadia Rivera said that representation, especially in the arts sphere, is essential in the community and is what drives the organization's work.
"You don't see a lot of yourself represented in the visual cultural space. ... There's nothing, in my opinion, that is a constant in our community that has that day-to-day representation of our culture like Xico."
Each year Xico reaches about 50,000 community members with its art exhibitions and unique programming, like printmaking workshops.
Xico previously received a grant from The Arizona Republic's Season for Sharing campaign grant to assist with expenses. The campaign has raised and given away more than $74 million to Arizona nonprofits since 1993.
Make a donationto Season for Sharingby clicking here.
The nonprofit's responses to The Republic's questions have been edited for length and clarity.
What vision does your organization have for the future?
Xico envisions a future that welcomes and empowers Arizona's Latino and Indigenous artists. This vision focuses on providing spaces and environments that allow these artists to develop their craft, share their stories, and promote social dialogue. By fostering innovation in art and supporting the economic advancement of local artists, Xico aims to stimulate a vibrant artistic community that honors cultural heritage while encouraging new forms of expression. Through its initiatives, spanning over 50 years, Xico seeks to elevate the voices of current and future artists, ensuring their contributions are recognized and valued within the broader cultural and arts landscape.
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What inspires the work of your organization?
As Xico celebrates its 50th anniversary, it continues to be inspired by the profound impact that Latino and Indigenous artists have had on the state's cultural, political, and social landscape. Born as an artist collective, Xico has consistently worked to provide a platform for underrepresented voices, ensuring their rightful place in Arizona's art community. By offering resources and opportunities for local artists to innovate and express themselves, Xico continues to foster cultural preservation and stimulate important social dialogues. As it marks this significant milestone, Xico reaffirms its commitment to nurturing artistic talent, pushing creative boundaries, and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Latino and Indigenous communities for future generations.
How does your organization help make Arizona a better place for Arizonans?
Xico plays a vital role in building a better Arizona by enriching the cultural, social, economic, and political fabric of the state's communities through its support of Latino and Indigenous artists. As one of the oldest ethnic arts organizations in the United States, Xico recognizes the profound impact these artists have on shaping Arizona's identity and documenting its rich history. By providing resources, platforms, and opportunities for artists to develop their craft and share their stories, Xico helps preserve and celebrate the diverse cultural heritage that is integral to Arizona's past and future. The organization's efforts also contribute to the state's economy, with arts and culture adding $14.2 billion to Arizona's GDP in 2022. Through its programs and initiatives, Xico not only nurtures artistic talent but also fosters social dialogue, cultural preservation, and economic advancement, ensuring that the voices and experiences of Latino and Indigenous communities continue to shape Arizona's narrative and inspire hope for a more inclusive and prosperous future.
What are your organization’s greatest needs?
Unrestricted funding is crucial for arts and culture organizations like Xico to maintain flexibility and resilience in an ever-changing landscape. While public funding for the arts has seen some increases, it continues to represent only a small fraction of total state general fund expenditures. As such, the arts sector heavily relies on foundation and private support. By providing unrestricted funding, supporters enable these organizations to adapt to community needs, innovate in their programming, and continue their essential work in enriching society's fabric.
How to donate to Season for Sharing
There are several ways you can donate to Season for Sharing and help organizations like UMOM continue to help families in need.
- Fill out the secure online form atsharing.azcentral.com.
- Text "SHARING" to 91-999 and click on the link in the text message.
- Go online atfacebook.com/seasonforsharingand look for the featured "DONATE HERE" post.
- Clip the coupon on Page 4A of The Arizona Republic, fill it out and mail it to P.O. Box 29250, Phoenix, AZ 85038-9250.
