In speaking about the Latino culture and community in the state of Ohio, we must first acknowledge the rapid growth and influence being demonstrated by Latinos, not only in Ohio but throughout the United States. But what exactly do we know about the Latino community in Ohio?

Most Latinos share a common language, religion and strong belief in the family. Beyond that, we come from different cultures, traditions, folklore and beliefs. This is what makes our community so rich!

Most Ohio Latinos are recent immigrants or descendents of immigrants from many different countries. The artists in this exhibition can all claim this history. The Latino community is indeed an exotic mosaic composed of different races and cultures that provides the rich narrative for our heritage.

This exhibition, "El Milenio Latino," is the second exhibition organized by the Ohio Latino Arts Association (OLAA). It focuses on the quality work of 14 diverse artists of Latino descent. Although you may be familiar with their names, you may not be aware of their cultural backgrounds.

Each artist here has made a significant contribution to the Ohio arts scene. Some of them have reputations of international stature, some are just beginning their journey into the global arts community.

Using sculpture, ceramics, photography and paintings as their media, they allow us to transcend cultural barriers so that we may enter their world, if only for a moment. In that moment, you, the viewer, participate in the wonderful universal language that is art.

Thank you for supporting the Latino arts community.

Salvador Gonzalez
Curator
"El Milenio Latino"