Regis artists explore Chicano heritage, Mexican roots and the 'space between'

At Regis University, Latine, Chicano and Hispanic students and staff have fostered a thriving intersectional community, enriched by events, conversations, and educational experiences. The rich diversity of identity and memory at Regis is a vibrant tapestry where culture and history converge, creating spaces for artistic expression and dialogue.  

This spirit of inclusivity is embodied in the work of Tony Ortega, MFA, professor of fine and performing arts at Regis. While on sabbatical, Ortega has organized "Nepantla," a group exhibition at the Museum of Art Fort Collins that celebrates this cultural dialogue, while highlighting the contributions of Regis students and alumni. 

“Nepantla” is a Nahuatl (Aztec language) word for “the space in between.” Popularized by Chicana feminist Gloria Anzaldúa, la Nepantla represents the intersectionality of Mexican, American and indigenous cultures. As a professor, Ortega carries this idea into the classroom. 

“I teach a class called Chicanismo/Chicanarte,” Ortega said. “I've been teaching it for over 10 years now, and I'll continue to teach when I come back. I bring onto campus some of the artists that I know, and the students get to meet somebody who firsthand experienced the movement.” 

Ortega’s infusion of Chicano identity into the Regis community “Nepantla” brings together 36 Chicano and Latino artists –– including multiple from the Regis community. Faculty, alumni and current students have their artwork included in this exhibit. The inclusion of multiple Regis community members in the exhibition was an easy decision, Ortega described, because of Regis’ close-knit community. 

Ada Gonzalez, a fine arts major in her senior year, was invited by Tony Ortega to be a part of “Nepantla.” Despite being an exhibiting artist, Gonzalez confessed that she didn’t always think she would bemaking art professionally. 

“I didn't really come here as an art major,” Gonzalez said. “I don't think anybody really comes in knowing exactly what they are. I came in wanting to be in physical therapy, and then moved to psychology, and then finally landed in art.” 

Gonzalez was able to explore many different mediums in her previous classes, trying her hand at sculpture and painting. But ultimately, she fell in love with the art of printmaking after a class with affiliate faculty Sharon Strasburg, and “I haven't looked back,” Gonzalez said.  

The piece that Gonzalez and Ortega selected for “Nepantla,” titled “Niñes," is an oversized monotype print which uses a dress from Gonzalez’s childhood like a “stamp.” With this piece, she strives to create a sense of abstraction and introspection regarding the shape and the purpose of the object. 

“I made this piece thinking about our childhood and how our childhood deeply affects who we are as adults,” Gonzalez said. “Reflecting my own family and my own loved ones, and why they are the way that they are, and ultimately, what are things that I’ve lived through?”  

Gonzalez was born and raised in Colorado, but her family came to the United States from Mexico. Taking bits and pieces from both aspects of her upbringing and shaping them into the person she is now is her connection to la Nepantla. 

“My home was like my little Mexico, my very little bit of that world,” Gonzalez said. “Everywhere else is very American, specifically in Colorado. I love being in both parts that I grew up in.” 

As Gonzalez continues her final year at Regis, she is excited to continue making art. After graduation, she plans to immediately start working towards a master’s degree. Having the experience exploring different art mediums and her foray into the world of exhibition at Regis has only compelled Gonzalez to keep creating. 

“I think the time here at Regis has been important, because we figure out more of who we are,” Gonzalez said. “I've had really great mentors that have been there guiding me through every part of my art journey, which I don't think I would have been able to really be able to do it without them. I’m beyond grateful to have that support and have people that want to help me and guide me.” 

“Nepantla” will be on display at the Museum of Art Fort Collins until Jan. 5, 2025. Learn more and plan your visit here. 

On Thursday, Nov. 7 at 7 p.m. a panel discussion will be held at the Museum of Art Fort Collins featuring Tony Ortega and Khristin Montes, Ph.D., of Regis University, as well as James Cordova, Ph.D., and George Rivera, Ph.D., from University of Colorado Boulder. This event is free and open to the public.