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Empowering Indigenous Voices Through the Arts
Welcome to
Arts and Culture For Indigenous Youth
Preserving and Promoting the rich cultural Heritage of Indigenous
communities
Ross Hardin
Director
Meet Ross Hardin, Director Ross Hardin is a dedicated community leader and advocate for Indigenous youth, with deep roots in Sonoma County. A long-standing member of the community, Ross has experienced a diverse range of roles throughout his career, from his beginnings as a retired sanitary engineer to his significant contributions to community service and tribal leadership. Ross began his professional journey with his uncle's pioneering business, Industrial Carting—Sonoma County’s first Black-owned sanitary company. This experience not only honed his skills in engineering but also instilled in him a strong sense of community responsibility. As a tribal citizen from the Graton Rancheria rancheria tribe, Ross actively engages in initiatives that promote cultural heritage and community welfare. As a grandfather, father, and husband, Ross understands the importance of nurturing the next generation. He is passionate about empowering Indigenous youth through the arts, believing that creative expression is essential for personal and cultural empowerment. Alongside renowned mural and modern artist Martin, Ross has spearheaded arts and culture sessions in schools across Sonoma County for the past four years. Together, they have transformed educational spaces with vibrant art, fostering a deeper connection to Indigenous culture among students. With a vision to expand this impactful movement, Ross is committed to further empowering youth by providing them with the tools and opportunities to express themselves artistically and culturally. Under his leadership, Arts and Culture for Indigenous Youth is poised to make an even greater impact in the community, inspiring young voices to share their stories and celebrate their heritage.
The Artist
Martin Zuniga
Martín Zúñiga, born in Michoacán, Mexico, is a self-taught artist whose life experiences profoundly shape his work. The son of farmworkers, he grew up working in the fields of California's Central Valley, where he faced numerous challenges, including language barriers and educational limitations. Despite these obstacles, his artistic talent was recognized early on, though he struggled to find support as a young, dyslexic artist in a small rural community. After leaving high school, Martín honed his skills in construction, which later informed his artistic practice. Since 1990, he has focused on his art, creating pieces that celebrate his roots as a migrant and Mexican-American. His work has been showcased in various exhibitions, earning accolades such as first and second place in the “Nudes of November” competition. Martín is also dedicated to community engagement, mentoring students, donating to educational programs, and facilitating public art projects, including murals and installations that reflect the rich diversity of his community.
The Artist
Edilia Mendez
Edilia Mendez is a talented Chicana artist from Sonoma County, proudly representing the vibrant cultures of Oaxaca and Guanajuato through her work. Born and raised in Windsor, California, Edilia is a member of the class of 2021 from Windsor High School. From a young age, Edilia felt a deep connection to art, but it wasn't until recently that she fully embraced it as a career. Through her artistic journey, she has experienced profound healing and personal growth, discovering the transformative power of creativity. Edilia views art as a powerful tool for self-expression and community advocacy. She passionately channels her experiences and heritage into her work, believing that art can foster healing and inspire change. As a first-generation artist, Edilia is dedicated to uplifting her community and using her voice to create a more just and inclusive world.