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This episode of Milwaukee’s Philanthropic Community explores the role art can play in preserving cultural heritage, building connections, and creating a sense of belonging. Host Jill Economou is joined by Jacobo Lovo, Managing Artistic Director of Latino Arts, a Milwaukee nonprofit that has spent more than 40 years providing accessible arts programming while showcasing the work of Hispanic and Latino artists.
Jacobo shares how Latino Arts approaches its mission through two complementary goals: preserving and celebrating the diverse cultural heritage of Hispanic and Latino communities while building cultural bridges that invite people of all backgrounds to experience and learn through the arts. Through visual art exhibitions, live performances, cultural workshops, and educational programming, Latino Arts creates opportunities to experience the breadth and diversity of Latino culture.
The conversation highlights the organization’s commitment to artists at every stage of their careers, from emerging local artists to national and international performers. Jacobo also discusses signature programs and events, including the Latino Arts Strings Program, the annual Día de los Muertos celebration, Noche de Gala, student matinees, cultural workshops, and virtual programming.
Listeners will also hear how these experiences can create meaningful connections to cultural heritage, particularly for young people, and why Latino Arts wants the broader community to know that its programming is for everyone. Jacobo shares ways to experience the organization firsthand, support its mission, and celebrate the artists and cultures that enrich Milwaukee and beyond.
0:23 | Introduction to Latino Arts and its more than 40 years in Milwaukee
1:24 | Latino Arts’ mission and its role in Milwaukee’s near south side
2:09 | Preserving Hispanic and Latino cultural heritage while building cultural bridges
2:49 | Showcasing visual and performing artists from Milwaukee and around the world
3:18 | What a typical year of performances, exhibitions, workshops, and programming looks like
4:27 | The diversity of artists featured by Latino Arts
5:28 | Supporting emerging artists and providing opportunities to showcase their work
7:14 | Celebrating more than 40 years of Latino Arts in Milwaukee
8:05 | Serving an intergenerational community and helping people connect with their cultural roots
9:09 | The Latino Arts Strings Program and combining classical training with cultural traditions
9:57 | Classical Guitar Fest and opportunities for young musicians
10:37 | The annual Día de los Muertos celebration and honoring its cultural roots
12:04 | How Día de los Muertos creates opportunities for healing, remembrance, and community
13:51 | Educational programming, student matinees, artist workshops, and community engagement
14:36 | Noche de Gala and supporting music education for more than 200 students
15:25 | The impact of private and group instruction through the Latino Arts Strings Program
16:35 | Why access to culturally relevant arts programming matters
16:48 | A student’s powerful experience connecting with her Mexican heritage
18:51 | Extending Latino Arts programming beyond Milwaukee
19:23 | Using virtual programming such as Lotería to connect audiences around the world
20:20 | How community support and philanthropy sustain Latino Arts’ work
21:56 | Why Latino Arts isn’t just for Latinos and welcomes the entire community
22:34 | An invitation to experience Latino Arts through a show, exhibit, workshop, or event
23:04 | How to connect with and support Latino Arts
Latino Arts is a Milwaukee cultural arts nonprofit dedicated to celebrating and preserving the diverse cultural heritage of Hispanic and Latino communities while building cultural bridges through the arts. Through visual art exhibitions, live performances, music education, cultural workshops, community celebrations, and other programming, Latino Arts provides opportunities for people of all backgrounds to experience and connect through culture and creativity.
Website: Visit Latino Arts
Presenter of the MPC Podcast. Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG), a registered investment advisor, provides comprehensive financial planning and fiduciary wealth management for individuals, families, businesses, and charitable foundations.
Website: Visit Ellenbecker Investment Group
This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Guest opinions represent the views of the individuals speaking, and references to companies or organizations do not imply endorsement by Ellenbecker Investment Group.
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