Avril
Michel

Avril Michel

Avril Michel is a visual artist born and raised in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. Surrounded from a young age by music, theater, and the visual arts, she developed a lifelong passion for creative expression. She studied at the Instituto Cultural Cabañas and Decorama Studio, holds a diploma in epoxy resin, and studied Graphic Design Technology at CDI College. Working primarily in oils, Avril creates abstract, richly textured paintings, and has exhibited in Edmonton and Calgary. Driven by the belief that art and music are essential tools in life, she founded the ArtMuse Community Collective—creating opportunities for young children, youth, adults, seniors, and newcomers to experience art and music and build community together. In 2026, she opened a non-profit organization that develops art and music with children, adults, and seniors, giving them access to the visual arts and music.

Rocío González

Rocio Herendira Gonzalez Rodriguez, born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, studied Public Accounting in her hometown. Mother and migrant since she arrived in Canada and felt so much frustration in the system, and she took refuge in art, it was a form of therapy. This is how she became a self-taught artist, volunteering in four organizations such as Migrant Alberta, AWARE, FAM and Mexican Society of Edmonton.

In 2021 I will participate as a volunteer artist in the art project called Surviving the Canadian Dream, capturing migrant stories with my art. These works have been exhibited in different parts of the city such as City Hall, in the McMullen gallery at the University Hospital of Alberta. Participating together with Migrant Alberta, AWARE and FAM in seminars to share my experiences, helping other women find appropriate resources and providing a mutual support system. Active volunteer in the Mexican Society of Edmonton participating in various events such as the Heritage Festival 2023 promoting Latin culture and art.

Rene Belducea

Rene Belducea is a Mexican-Canadian contemporary artist born in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, and raised in Baja California. Now based in Edmonton, Alberta, Rene's artistic practice is deeply rooted in her Mexican heritage.

Working primarily with acrylic and mixed media, Rene's vibrant and emotive paintings offer a window into the rich cultural landscape of Mexico. Her artistic style is characterized by vibrant colours, textures, and symbolic motifs that reflect her country's history, mythology, and everyday life.

Rene's artwork has been exhibited in various galleries and cultural institutions in Edmonton, Calgary, and Mexico, including the Mexican Consulate in Calgary. Notable exhibitions include "Mexico en la piel," "Gotas de color," "Las hijas del maíz," and "Alta in Baja." She has also participated in Dia de Muertos events, designing altars in collaboration with the Mexican Society in Edmonton.

Rene draws inspiration from renowned Mexican artists such as Frida Kahlo, Maria Izquierdo, and Aurora Reyes, as well as international figures like Picasso. Her artistic vision is driven by a desire to share the beauty and diversity of Mexican culture with a broader audience.

Through her art, Rene aims to create a sense of connection and community among Mexican-Canadians, while also promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. Her paintings serve as a testament to the enduring power of Mexican culture and its ability to inspire and enrich our lives.