Rena Zapata Bouchard is awarded Arts Advocate of the Year
NWMAC Director Mara Hanel and Arts Advocate of the Year Rena Zapata Bouchard
NWMAC Arts Advocate of the Year Rena Zapata Bouchard
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is excited to announce that Rena Zapata Bouchard of Crookston was awarded the Northwest Arts Advocate of the Year Award.
A certified freelance makeup artist and portrait photographer, Rena is passionate about empowering others and using the arts as a tool for social change. In 2019, she spearheaded the creation of Studio 110, a permanent space dedicated to digital storytelling for youth and adults in Crookston and the surrounding area and has continued in an active leadership role with the organization.
A satellite site since 1996 for Minneapolis organization In Progress, Studio 110 first offered summer programs called Fresh Voices in Crookston. In high school, Rena participated in one of their sessions. Later in 2018, she enrolled her kids, and she joined them to chaperone and never left. There she learned portraiture and has continued to hone her craft.
Studio 110 has become a space for media arts creativity with themes related to breaking stereotypes and acceptance. Media arts is art made looking through a lens like photography and video. Rena helps students who identify as persons of color find a welcoming home base at Studio 110. She coordinates media arts workshops, bringing in talented professional artists from across the nation to teach and empower those who come to the downtown Crookston location. She also podcasts and utilizes her makeup artistry in creative projects with the students and offers free family portraits during themed holiday events at Studio 110.
According to Kristine Sorenson who nominated Rena, “This initiative (Studio 110) was a testament to Rena’s vision, as she designed programs, managed events, and actively promoted activities that honored cultural identity through the arts. Studio 110 has become a hub for creativity and community engagement, hosting workshops and creating opportunities for artistic expression.” Rena “is a passionate advocate for inclusivity and accessibility in the arts, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or experience, has the opportunity to participate and express themselves. Rena’s advocacy for her community and her ability to bring the art of storytelling to the forefront are truly commendable. Rena’s artistic talent, her dedication to empowering others, and her passion for using the arts as a tool for social change make her an outstanding candidate for the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council Arts Advocate Award. It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Rena Zapata Bouchard for the prestigious Artist of the Year Award. Rena’s remarkable journey as an artist, her unwavering dedication to her craft, and her inspiring contributions to the creative community make her a truly deserving candidate for this esteemed honor.“
Rena’s sister, Regina Zapata said, “Rena has dedicated her time, energy, and creativity to enriching our community through the arts, serving as a tireless advocate for artists and underrepresented voices in Northwest Minnesota. She has used her talents to foster community engagement and inspire others. She has curated exhibits, provided mentorship and education to both youth and adults, and consistently advocated for greater Latinx representation in the arts. Her dedication to inclusivity and cultural visibility has made a lasting difference in our region, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and celebrated. Rena’s passion for advocacy, her unwavering support for fellow artists, and her visionary leadership make her an ideal candidate for the Arts Advocate of the Year award.”
Finally, Keri Pinna described Rena as a creative collaborator. Pinna’s work with Rena includes recording a podcast and facilitating the production of a short documentary. “Rena’s passionate advocacy for inclusivity in the arts has facilitated community capacity for self-expression; especially where voice has historically been unheard.”
Rena spoke of Studio 110, “It is open to everyone. This is a safe space that allows kids to open up. And, It has a huge impact, especially in our area where resources and support is limited. Having this program benefits a lot of people, including the kids and the community. The programs are free and provide access to all kinds of media equipment. Participants learn to do things they wouldn’t have been able to, like making award-winning videos.” Rena’s advice to aspiring artists is “Do it. If it makes you scared, then it’s probably going to be positive. Just jump in and try it.”
Rena with her friends and family at the NW Art Award Program
This award was presented on Sunday, April 27 in Crookston at the University of Minnesota. Three awards are given each year to recognize artists and arts advocates within our seven-county region who stand out in terms of artistry or volunteerism in the arts. Of the Year Award winners were nominated by area residents. Our Arts Advocate of the Year award is $500 and includes arts from all disciplines. Funding for this award comes from the Minnesota State Legislature.
Rena speaking at the NW Art Awards Program in Crookston
Congratulations, Rena!
