MEZTLI PROJECTS

Meztli Projects supports the creative development of Native and Indigenous artists.

We were founded with the intent to address the severe lack of artistic opportunities for Native and Indigenous Artists as-well-as systems-impacted youth living and creating in Los Angeles County (Tovaangar). This work takes shape in several forms such as for-hire opportunities, advocating for truly equitable resources such as but not limited to funding and culturally authentic (not just relevant) programming, and training future and emerging cultural workers. 

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Waning Crescent: 
a meztli projects group show


On view: June 12 to July 19, 2025
OXY ARTS: 4757 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042





Exhibition Photos by Miranda Aquino and OXY Arts    
                                                                                    
Waning Crescent, a meztli projects group show        

This group show celebrates the journey of meztli projects in supporting Native and Indigenous artists. The exhibition features works created between 2024 and today by artists engaged in their collaborative ecosystem. These pieces signify a new phase for the artists, showcasing growth into new creative realms. For instance, River Garza and Emilia Cruz have evolved toward sculptural work, Kimberly Robertson's intricate beadwork creations into large beaded tapestries, and Kenneth Lopez's documentary photography blended into woven visions.

Meztli is the Nahuatl word for "moon." For this collective, the moon and its phases symbolize their approach to cultivating relationships with young Indigenous artists, culture bearers, and the general public. Taking time to reflect on important values such as stewardship, the meaning of reindigenizing spaces and technologies, and the deep connection between ceremony and artmaking. Their work mirrors the changing seasons and is responsive to the moment.

A waning crescent represents the small sliver of the moon visible just before it enters the New Moon phase. This exhibition symbolizes what comes next for meztli projects and highlights their partnership with OXY ARTS, which has hosted various creative efforts and exemplifies a nurturing, reciprocal relationship for Indigenous artists and institutional spaces.

Exhibiting artists include:

Rihanna Barrera
CJ Calica
Emilia Cruz
Joel Garcia
River Garza
Skyler Green
Kenneth Lopez
Kimberly Robertson
Aanii Tate
Alexandria Ybarra
Isaac Michael Ybarra.




Exhibition Photos by Miranda Aquino and OXY Arts 


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