About this Event
The City of Holyoke and Wistariahurst is proud to present the opening of Matria, a compelling photo installation by local artist Michelle Falcón Fontanes. Launching on November 14 at Wistariahurst Museum, Matria brings to life the stories and achievements of five inspiring Puerto Rican women from Holyoke who have selflessly dedicated their time and energy to the better of Holyoke. Supported by funding from the NEFA Making it Public Grant and Mass in Motion, this project captures the resilience and impact of these women as social justice warriors, advocates, and leaders working within our community.
After its debut at Wistariahurst, Matria will move in Spring 2025 to Holyoke’s Puerto Rican Cultural District on Main Street, inviting an even broader audience to witness and celebrate these womens journeys.
Join us on November 14th from 5 to 7pm to honor these community champions and experience the exceptional photographic work of Michelle Falcón Fontanez.
Entrance to the Wistariahurst is free to the community during operating hours, please email [email protected] to inquire about open hours and when you can see this beautiful exhibit.
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honoring HER
Women are at the forefront of creating lasting change in our communities, but are often undervalued, overlooked and ignored.
MATRIA uplifts the stories of five Puerto Rican women that have made significant contributions in Holyoke. These leaders have dedicated themselves to making positive change in our community through activism, preserving history, fighting for accessible education, connecting community members with resources and engaging in volunteer work.
The community leaders featured in this project include: Gladys Lebrón-Martínez, María Salgado-Cartagena, Marisela Alvarado, Marisol Fontánez Cuadrado, and Yamaris Rivera.
artist statement:
My people have been oppressed, silenced, restricted, forgotten, and murdered, ultimately leading to the erasure of our stories. I grew up without any knowledge of my Puerto Rican history or an understanding of what our people sacrificed to preserve the little pieces of us that remained. I utilize my art as a way to prevent those stories and the experiences of other unheard voices from being erased. I feel that true change can only happen when you understand your past and give voice to those experiences.
about the artist:
Michelle Falcón Fontánez is an award winning storyteller working in photography, film, and public art. Michelle has witnessed and personally experienced injustices that have shaped her views of the world, motivating her pursuit of making change through art. Her artistry has primarily focused on social justice issues, advocating for women’s rights, dismantling colonialism, and calling attention to Puerto Rican issues, ultimately creating work to illuminate voices that have not been heard.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
238 Cabot St, 238 Cabot Street, Holyoke, United States
USD 0.00
