Meet Miranda Ynez Botello, a bad ass latina and future arts leader. She juggles curating powerful exhibitions at Ave 50 Studios, running her Etsy shop called El.Nopal, and receiving her masters degree in Art Administration. This soft spoken LA native has some loud ideas about the arts and the current political climate.
Wearing Wild June's Toping bag in black
I walked into the gallery as Miranda prepared to install the upcoming show. She greeted me with a warm smile and bright eyes. When asked to describe the art space she said, "Ave 50 Studio's is a non-profit whose mission is to bring awareness to the next generation of artists of color." She emphasizes on how important it is to use the art space to give people in undeserved communities a voice of change and drive. What she loves most? Working directly with Kathy Gallegos, Founder of Ave 50 who also sits on the California Arts Council.
What inspired you to curate Black & Brown Love is Revolutionary?
Since Avenue 50 Studio is known as a grassroot art space, my co worker (Peter Woods) and I wanted to put together a show in response to the Trump administration’s xenophobic and racist agenda. The inspiration we wanted to curate and give to others through Black & Brown Love is Revolutionary centers art as a weapon for activism. While there is no universal code or standard for Black/Brown behavior; sticking together, looking out for one another, and embracing the concept of love has always been a cultural trait in communities.
Did you attend the Women's March? What were you thoughts?
I did attend the Womxn’s March. I felt is was a very beautiful experience to go through and be a part of. I hope the momentum, passion, and unity continues with other protests going on.
Any advice for young people who want to be politically involved?
If you want to be politically involved but don’t know how, use your social media to your advantage! Repost flyers and images on current issues. Spread knowledge through your pages. This is one of the most important things you can do to get the message out their to others.
Reach out your professors, community art spaces, even your family and friends and ask for clarification if you’re uncertain about something. If you are passionate about changing the system, this should be something you find fun and easy.
Tell us about El Nopal!
I have owned Shop El Nopal for about a year now and everything is handmade and made to order. Some of the art I create involves embroidery & I wanted to find a way to involve some sort of apparel aspect. I thought hats would be the perfect beginning. I started out by sewing words like “Chingona” (Which means badass in Spanish) and body positive words like “Thick” on the front of them. It soon moved to little characters like cacti, avocados, and crystals. People were noticing and inquired about purchasing.
I’m currently working on building my own website so I closed down my Etsy and only taking private orders. If you’re interested in ordering, check out my instagram (@el.nopal) to see the designs I’ve made and email me at shopelnopal@gmail.com to place an order.
How did you think of the brand name?
Branding is so hard when you start your own business! I chose “El Nopal” due to my mild obsession with cacti and succulents. I thought this was the best name to use for my brand because it is part of my identity and cultural background. Plus, it’s my fans favorite item to buy.
How would you describe your personal style?
My style is very contemporary Chicana mixed with my tropical Afro-Puerto Rican/Latina roots.
I make things that many people from all backgrounds love and admire. Whether it’s empowering text, popular plants, or tropical fruit, my style doesn’t discriminate and is made for everyone.
