Latin American Brilliance at Walters Art Museum

This past week at The Walters Art Museum was nothing short of magical—a sacred convergence of art, ancestry, and celebration. From the moment I walked into the press preview for Across Asia and the Americas: Ancestral Connections, I felt the presence of the ancestors so palpably. Their whispers traveled through the gold, textiles, and textures that adorned the galleries. I held space to emote in public and openly. We should feel our feelings unapologetically—always.

This powerful exhibition features nearly 100 works from across Asia and Latin America, with a focus on Panama, Peru, Mexico, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and El Salvador. From ancient gold to contemporary brilliance, Panama shined—and so did we.

Press Preview: Feeling the Ancestors

The press preview was my first moment seeing the exhibition come to life. I walked slowly, reverently, absorbing the stories in the walls and the ones carried in my own blood. I was especially struck by the image of a Guna woman dressed in gold, adorned in her handmade mola—a mirror image of a photograph that has lived on my home altar for years. Full circle doesn’t even begin to describe it.

VIP Night: Radiant in Gold

Next came the golden VIP night. I showed up in full glam, decked in gold from head to toe, radiating joy. The Walters has always held a special place in my heart. As a teenager at BSA (Baltimore School for the Arts), I’d sneak away to the museum to lie on the cool floors and sketch the sculptures. To now return as an honored guest, sharing space with other cultural leaders and artists, was a profound moment of reflection and gratitude.

Community Celebration & Opening Day: Flower Crowns & Full Hearts

The final event was the joyful community celebration and official exhibition opening. This is where I shared my studio work as a featured artist in the community marketplace. Wearing gold shoes and a flower crown, I floated through the space connecting with guests, collectors, and supporters—feeling radiant and rooted. I was accompanied by my oldest child throughout the week, and together we beamed with pride seeing our beloved Panamá represented on the walls of such a revered institution.

A Heartfelt Thank You

Thank you to the entire Walters fam. I felt seen, held, and loved at every step. I'm deeply grateful to have had the chance to share pieces from my studio practice—many shown in person for the first time—and to stand in a space that has long nourished me as both artist and human. Here's to more sacred collaborations, more stories, and more golden moments.