Ricardo Flores Magón Academy Unveils Stunning New Mural

By Hilary Olivares

Posted Sept. 19, 2024

A striking way to kick off Hispanic Heritage month was set in place on September 14^th, at Ricardo Flores Magón Academy in Denver, as they revealed an iconic mural, “Our Culture as Education” created by distinguished Chicano artist Leo Tanguma. The 20- by 12-foot masterpiece taps into what it signifies to be Chicano, Hispanic, Mexican, Indigenous and other Latinx cultures at Ricardo Flores Magón Academy (RFMA).

Leo Tanguma had an idea a year ago to do something big and memorable. He felt that this project would only feel right if he had the help of elementary students at (RFMA), college students from Metropolitan State University of Denver, and included family members that could contribute their ideas of history, community, and diversity. RFMA Dean of Culture Marc Lytle said, “We are extremely honored to host a ceremony commemorating Leo Tanguma’s newest mural ‘Our Culture as Education’. Leo has been working in constant collaboration with our students, families and with his assistant Julieta Ochoa for the last 15 months, creating a masterpiece that reflects the history, diversity, nuance, and strength of our community.

“This project was made possible in art because of our partnership with Metro State University’s Journey Through Our Heritage program. To have an artist of this magnitude in our school for over a year was a monumental life experience for everyone in our community,” added Lytle.

Before the unveiling of the mural, a blessing of the space was performed by Danzantes Aztecas. Lytle read remarks from Tanguma: “I am very grateful for the opportunity they gave me to paint this mural here at the Ricardo Flores Magón Academy. It is always an honor to paint about our Mexican, Chicano and Latina communities.

“First of all, I would like to thank Zachary Dominello, Executive Director [RFMA] and Marc Lytle, Dean of Culture, for inviting me to make this mural. Thanks to both of you. I would also like to thank Dr. Renee Fajardo of the University’s Journey Through Our Heritage Program at Metropolitan State of Denver for recommending RFMA for this move.”

As five student artists unveiled the mural, a message in the middle read: “Never will it be forgotten, what they came to record in their paintings. Their culture and their history. Always we shall treasure it. We who have their blood and their color. We shall tell it. We shall pass it on to those who are yet to live, The children of the Sun.”

This message empowers young students to not only remember where they come from but to be proud of their backgrounds.

Julieta Ochoa, Tanguma’s assistant, explained the illustrations in the mural and what they represent: A crying woman, a depiction of folk tale La Llorona is seen reuniting with her children; Mexican-American soldiers in the U.S. Civil War, Machu Picchu in Peru are among the many reminders of Latino culture.

The imagery above the quote represents what Leo called “a Cosmic or Universal Mestizo.” The array of colors represent everyone’s journey and experiences being a part of the Latinx, Hispanic, Mexican, and Indigenous communities.

Following the reveal, attendees enjoyed a performance by Danzantes Aztecas, food from various vendors, raffles, games; and Jeanne Stanford-Tanguma, Leo’s wife, sold posters of the mural signed by Leo to raise money for future projects with RFMA. T-shirts and other merchandise were sold as well.

As Hispanic Heritage Month unfolds, “Our Culture as Education” stands as a poignant tribute to the rich tapestry of traditions and knowledge that define our community. The mural’s vibrant colors and evocative imagery not only celebrate our shared heritage but also invite viewers to reflect on the power of cultural education. To stay updated on RFMA’s future events and watch the live stream, be sure to visit their Facebook page at RFMA Facebook. For those interested in exploring Leo Tanguma’s impactful murals and his artistic journey, his website provides a comprehensive look at his work: Artist Leo Tanguma.

Hilary Olivares is an Independent Reporter for The Weekly Issue/El Semanario.