Mano a Mano - Mexican Culture Without Borders

A woman stands smiling in front of a creatively designed art installation featuring large, white angel wings painted on a black backdrop. Above the wings, various abstract and artistic designs in white stand out against the backdrop. Orange ribbons and decorations surround the setup, adding color and contrast. People in winter clothing can be seen in the background, and sunlight casts shadows, indicating a clear day. The scene is lively, with diverse individuals engaged in different activities, providing a festive atmosphere.

CRNY artist Andrea Arroyo and Day of the Dead installation at SVA-Flatiron

Photo by Mariana Otalora

A colorful and ornate altar dedicated to the Day of the Dead, adorned with traditional marigold flowers and vibrant decorations. The centerpiece is a large paper skull decorated in bright hues, flanked by two smaller skulls painted in blue and black with intricate designs. Around the skulls are paper cut-outs of skeletons and heart-shaped motifs. Photographs of deceased loved ones are placed at the altar, surrounded by small decorated sugar skulls, candles, and bottles. The scene is rich with cultural symbolism and vibrant colors, celebrating the memory of the departed.

Day of the Dead altar at SVA-Flatiron

Photo by Mariana Otalora

A female artist leans over a large canvas, intently focused as she paints intricate patterns with bold black lines. Her right hand guides the brush smoothly while her left hand supports her stance. She is wearing a simple black t-shirt and jeans, and her hair cascades down her back. The room around her is filled with natural light and features rows of windows. Several large sheets and more art materials are spread across tables in the background, suggesting a creative and collaborative environment. The setting appears to be a spacious studio, conducive to large-scale artistic endeavors.

CRNY artist Andrea Arroyo and “Goddesses at the Palace” work in progress

Photo courtesy of Andrea Arroyo

Four large vertical banners with intricate black line floral designs hang against a richly decorated wall. The background features opulent golden pillars adorned with elaborate carvings and ornate architectural details, highlighted by warm ambient lighting. The floral motifs on the banners complement the luxurious and historic ambiance of the setting, creating a harmonious blend of art and architecture.

“Goddesses at the Palace” installation at the United Palace

Photo by Robbie Pope Bailey

A group of people engage in a crafting activity at an outdoor event. They are seated at several tables arranged along a brick patio in front of a building. Colorful paper decorations, including cut-out banners, are prominently displayed around the area. A variety of art supplies, such as scissors, paper, and tape, are scattered across the tables. Participants appear focused and are of different ages and backgrounds, indicating an inclusive and communal atmosphere. Lush green bushes and trees surround the space, adding a touch of nature to the urban environment.

CRNY artist Andrea Arroyo leads a workshop on papel picado at the Audubon Terrace

Photo by Juan Aguirre

A group of eight people is gathered in an art gallery, attentively listening to a guide who is explaining various artworks. The artworks on display include vibrant portraits and abstract pieces, arranged on the walls of the gallery. The visitors, dressed in casual winter attire such as jackets and scarves, are standing around a table placed in the center of the room. Art pieces framed in black and bright colors create a visually engaging atmosphere. A mannequin with a dress stands in the left corner, adding a three-dimensional element to the exhibition.

CRNY artist Andrea Arroyo leads a guided tour of the Women in the Heights exhibition for NMIC's Domestic Violence Project (DVP)

Photo courtesy of Juan Aguirre

The Collaboration

Visual artist Andrea Arroyo worked with Mano a Mano: Mexican Culture Without Borders to celebrate and expand education and awareness around traditional Mexican art. Together, they built partnerships with community organizations and institutions to engage with immigrants, survivors of domestic violence, and a broader community of New York City families. Andrea led interactive artmaking workshops and presented large-scale site specific installations with the School of Visual Arts, St. Mark’s Church-in-the-Bowery, and the United Palace, drawing thousands of enthusiastic attendees. Mano a Mano organized two vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations featuring Andrea’s collaborative creation of a fantastic ofrenda, which was widely praised and celebrated. The events offered a rich cultural experience and served as a platform for community members to deeply engage with their heritage and identity.

The Organization

Mano a Mano: Mexican Culture Without Borders is a New York-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating Mexican culture and promoting the understanding of Mexican traditions through arts, culture, humanities, and annual holiday celebrations.

Working alongside Andrea has been immensely beneficial for our organization in the last two years. Our joint efforts have produced remarkable results, enabling us to extend the hours of cultural activities available and infuse the organization with a unique artistic perspective. Juan C. Aguirre

Working on this collaboration has allowed me to establish meaningful connections with a large, diverse, and culturally rich community. This experience continues to inspire me to grow as an artist and a human being. Andrea Arroyo