ARTISTS
YOLANDA YADSANI CEREZO SANABRIA
Yolanda Yadsany Cerezo Sanabria is a Mexican singer and has been a professional musician since the age of 19. Her passion for singing began in childhood and is part of her family history: she is the third generation of musicians, sharing this vocation with her father.
She has received vocal training from private teachers and instruction in solfège. Although she performs various genres, her specialty and greatest pride is traditional Mexican music. She is currently a member of the mariachi band directed by her father, where she has the honor of representing Mexico's rich cultural heritage to tourists from around the world.
She performs at high-end hotels on the Riviera Maya and at all kinds of events, from intimate dinners to large public celebrations. With a commitment to total dedication, she attends to every detail: stage presence, traditional costumes, and a performance that connects with the audience thanks to her charisma, experience, and passion for tourism.
ZULEYKA ERAZO
Zuleyka Erazo is a distinguished Human Resources Manager and also the Artistic Director and Folkloric Choreographer of the Viva México Ottawa dance group. She graduated in Mexico City from the Dance and Song Academy of the Ollín Yoliztli Cultural Center, directed by choreographer Héctor Fink.
It reflects both strategic leadership and creative vision.
She has led key human resources initiatives that strengthen organizational culture and support employee development.
Beyond her corporate impact, she is a choreographer of Mexican folk dance and uses movement to inspire confidence, unity, and self-expression in our community. Her goal is to represent our beautiful country by instilling in children, teenagers, and adults a deep love for our homeland and Mexican culture.
¡VIVA MÉXICO! has promoted the dissemination of our Mexican roots, art and culture through our music and dances for more than 20 years.
Zuleyka's promise to you is that in every performance our dancers will share their enthusiasm and effort, and in return, we ask that you show us your support by always singing and shouting… LONG LIVE MEXICO!
LETICIA GUTIERREZ TEXIS
I have over seven years of experience dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the cultural heritage of the State of Tlaxcala. I work as a cultural promoter and specialist in the art of totomoxtle (corn husk). My work integrates artistic creation, education, and the preservation of indigenous identity.
As a certified instructor with five years of experience in the corn husk technique, I lead workshops focused on transforming this ancestral material into contemporary design pieces and traditional figures. My work transcends the aesthetic, linking with the rescue of ancestral gastronomy, traditional dance, and the revitalization of the Nahuatl mother tongue through song.
Throughout this journey, I have proudly represented the richness of our roots in various forums, achieving a reach that spans from local and national exhibitions to international platforms. I have participated in cultural events in the United States, and my commitment to culture goes beyond individual creation; it is about walking together. My greatest satisfaction has been accompanying and leading groups of women artisans so that together we can occupy spaces in festivals and cultural gatherings, allowing their talent and ancestral knowledge to be recognized on stages of great national and international importance.
Yoltlaol Yahuitl is a group of leading and entrepreneurial women from various municipalities in the
state of Tlaxcala. With over
six years of experience dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the region's heritage,
specializes in revitalizing
Tlaxcalan customs and traditions through a multidisciplinary approach that includes
the Nahuatl language (through song), crafts,
ancestral gastronomy, and traditional medicine.
As ambassadors of our identity, we promote the excellence of regional dances
, such as the Mahuitzotzintle, the Jarabe Tlaxcalteco, the
Xochipitzahuatl (Tlaxcalan wedding), and the Huehues dances. Through
cultural exchanges and high-impact festivals, we have successfully showcased
the richness of Tlaxcala at the municipal, state, national, and
international
EDUARDO GUTIERREZ LOPEZ
With over five years of experience transforming wood into living stories, my
work specializes in traditional iconography, particularly the creation of
Huehues masks and highly detailed pieces that reflect the soul of my community.
In addition to running my own workshop for high-quality handcrafted furniture, I also dedicate myself
to preserving the Nahuatl language, ancestral dances, and wood carving.
Carpenter Artisan
Artisan of huehues masks, canes and figures of different themes, each
piece constitutes a cultural expression that transforms wood into living stories,
reflecting in every detail the spirit, customs and legacy of our
community.
The wood is meticulously selected, choosing materials that guarantee
strength, beauty, and long-lasting durability. The entire creation process
is carried out entirely by hand, without the use of molds or
industrial procedures, giving each piece a unique and unrepeatable character.
CRISTINA SEVILLA
Cristina Sevilla is the mind and heart behind Keratto, a brand that fuses design, culture, and emotion. Her work isdistinguished by transforming elements of Mexican tradition into contemporary pieces that connect with people on both an aesthetic and emotional level. With a career that integrates creativity, multicultural sensitivity, and a clear brand vision, Cristina has built her own unique style: colorful, approachable, and profoundly human.
Keratto represents a warm bridge between cultures: objects that carry the richness of Mexico and, upon reaching new hands, celebrate diversity, collaboration, and the value of things made with intention. May each gift be more than just a token: a gesture that honors human labor and strengthens the relationships that build the future.
STÉPHANIE VALDÉS BESSON
Stéphanie Valdés-Besson, known artistically as Artstepix, was born in Coyoacán, Mexico. Today, she lives and creates in Quebec, Canada. A self-taught mixed-media painter, she works primarily with watercolor, black ink, and touches of acrylic. Her work transforms the traditional delicacy of watercolor into an intense, luminous expression where creatures, plants, and symbols come to life in dynamic compositions.
Initially inspired by Tenango embroidery and the symbolic universe of Mayan nahuales, Artstepix constructs dense, narrative visual worlds: rabbits dance alongside deer, protective hearts, birds, flowers, and small, hidden elements that invite close observation. Her personal technique consists of outlining each element with fine strokes of black ink, creating a striking contrast that intensifies the colors and gives her works a unique visual energy.
Her work, Mes deux corazones, was selected as the winner of the Présent'Art competition in Quebec. Following this award, the piece was reproduced in a large format for display in a public park in Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures. Additionally, some of her works are exhibited and available for purchase at the Couleur store, located on Cartier Street, a renowned cultural area in Quebec City.
Artstepix also creates custom works of great symbolic depth. Before painting, he meets with the recipient to learn about their story, their energy, and what makes them unique. From this encounter, he identifies the corresponding Mayan nahual, understood as an energy or essence symbolized by animals, plants, or natural forces, and integrates it into a unique composition, along with other elements linked to their loved ones when the work requires it. What at first glance may appear to be a tree of life surrounded by fauna and flora actually holds an intimate and unrepeatable portrait. In some commissions, the artwork is accompanied by a notebook that reveals its meanings and hidden elements.
Each piece by Artstepix, signed under the pseudonym Stepix, is a box of surprises: the eye never ceases to discover. His art is a bridge between cultures, a meeting place, and a celebration of shared wonder.
DALIA MENDOZA LIMON
Dalia Mendoza Limón is a visual artist, an active member of artistic associations in the Outaouais region, and has participated in group and solo exhibitions in Canada. Her paintings showcase mixed media, figurative art, and abstraction. Some photographs of her paintings appear in her books, * Hilvanes cortos* *La levedad del alma* , as well as in two publications on Hispanic-Canadian art and literature, published in Canada between 2022 and 2025.
GILDA PONTBRIAND
Gilda was recognized by Forbes magazine in 2018 as one of the 100 Most Influential Women in Mexico for her volunteer work teaching underprivileged children through her project, Vamos a Pintar Esperanza (Let's Paint Hope). Her artistic career includes 24 awards in painting and 10 more in photography and digital painting.
In 2013 he received the Ohtli Prize awarded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to outstanding Mexicans.
The Ottawa government recognized her with the “Civic Appreciation Award” in 2009 for her volunteer work teaching Latin American art in primary and secondary schools.
Among his achievements is the unveiling of the first Mexican sculpture by the internationally renowned Mexican artist Leonardo Nierman at the National Center of Art (NAC) after more than two decades of negotiations with the “National Capital Commission”.
She served, on a voluntary basis, as Director of Visual Arts for the Iberian-American Forum for twelve years, a non-profit organization that, in collaboration with the University of Ottawa, promoted Latin American culture in Canada, organizing painting and photography exhibitions, literary conferences, gastronomic and film festivals, etc.
He has had more than 175 solo and group exhibitions and his work is found in private, public and corporate collections in Canada, France, Mexico, Israel, El Salvador, Peru, Chile, Malaysia, Australia, Poland and the United States of America.
His paintings and poems have been published in books and magazines in Mexico, Canada and the USA, including in Filibro's commemorative books in Canada.
LILIANA HERMIDA
Liliana Hermida is the founder of Lartemexicano, a project created in 2024 dedicated to promoting, preserving and sharing the richness of Mexican art and culture.
Through authentic products made with passion, she celebrates the traditions, colors, and essence of Mexico.
Her creative vision and deep love for her roots have allowed her to establish a space of cultural identity, where Mexican art comes to life and connects with new audiences.
Authentic Mexican handicrafts, handmade by artisans from different regions of Mexico, such as decorative pieces, accessories, textiles, traditional items and cultural gifts that highlight the artistic richness and Mexican artisan talent.
MARIACHI SALINAS
Born from our love for music and the desire to celebrate cultural diversity, Mariachi Salinas is a vibrant multicultural ensemble dedicated to celebrating the richness of regional Mexican music in Canada.
With seasoned musicians from Mexico, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Canada, we bring together diverse musical backgrounds and traditions to create an authentic and inclusive mariachi experience. Our passion lies in singing songs that evoke fond memories, heartfelt nostalgia, and connect people from different cultures. Whether performing classic rancheras, romantic boleros, or lively tunes, our goal is to honor the roots of mariachi and share its warmth and energy with our audience.
POLA BENITEZ
Pola Benítez is President and representative of Azul Cobalto Arte Mexicano AC, an artistic collective based in Puebla.
He comes from a family with a strong artistic tradition that begins with Enrique Benítez Nieto (grandfather), Poohlo Benítez (father), Enrique Benítez Jr. (uncle), Roberto Benítez (brother), Ale. E. Benítez and Pepe E. Benítez (sons), Constanza del Cielo Benítez Soto (granddaughter).
Pola Benítez is a leading visual artist in Puebla, with a distinguished career in painting, particularly in realist and impressionist styles depicting Mexican landscapes and culture. As president of Azul Cobalto Arte Mexicano AC, she has spearheaded high-impact exhibitions in iconic venues and through traveling exhibitions under the "Gira-Arte que Camina" (Traveling Art Tour) initiative. Her artistic legacy is closely linked to that of a family of painters, and her cultural contributions have been recognized with her being named one of the 50 Memorable Women.
Pola Benítez has exhibited in numerous venues, both individually and in group shows. Her participation in eight solo exhibitions and 163 group exhibitions through the "Gira-Arte que Comunica" project is particularly noteworthy. She has also shown her work in museums, most notably an exhibition at the Ex Hacienda de Chautla.
DALIA MENDOZA LIMON
Dalia Mendoza Limón is a visual artist and an active member of artistic associations in the Outaouais region. She has participated in group and solo exhibitions in Canada. Some photographs of her paintings appear in her books, *Hilvanes cortos* and *La levedad del alma*, as well as in two publications on Hispanic-Canadian art and literature, published in Canada between 2022 and 2025.
In the paintings that Dalia Mendoza presents in this exhibition, one can appreciate the mixed technique and figurative creation, the warm colors in the images of the realistic monarchs or the allegorical female monarchs and their relationship between their annual trips from Canada to Mexico, the traditional character of La Catrina, the golden sun contrasted with the cold blue of winter, the indigenous man in the center of the painting Mexico or the representative figures of pre-Columbian Mexico in the center of the Labyrinths.
All these paintings reveal the artist's country of origin.
LIZ TEJADA
I am Liz Tejada, an entrepreneur of Mexican origin based in Canada, founder of SilverMx.
For me, a silver jewel is more than just an accessory; it defines who we are and is a gift for life. With each piece, I connect with each person and highlight the talent of our Mexican artisans.
CARLOS ZEPEDA
- Art exhibition at the Mexican-Lebanese Center, 2023.
- Temporary exhibition at Casa del Mendrugo, February 2024.
- Temporary exhibition at Casa Barroca, February 2024.
- Presentation at the Government Report of Governor Diego Sinhue; Irapuato, Guanajuato. Headquarters of the National Water Commission, April 2024.
- Temporary exhibition at the Rosewood Hotel. “Beyond Water” event, San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, June 2024.
- Exhibition and talk with the Ambassador of the Netherlands, Wilfred Mohr, Rosewood Hotel; San Miguel de Allende, June 2024.
- Temporary exhibition in Ciudad Sagrada, San Andres Cholula, Puebla, June 2024.
- “We Are Earth” Exhibition, Crojash Gallery, June 2024.
- Temporary exhibition “We are all one” special invitation, Crojash Gallery. Temporary exhibition “Baroque Puebla”, Casa del Mendrugo Museum, June-December 2025.
- Installation of a large-format “Freedom” sculpture, 4 meters high, Campestre de Celaya, Guanajuato, January 2025.
- Conference “Discover the secrets behind the bronze and the angels, Baroque Puebla”, Casa del Mendrugo Museum Puebla, July 2025.
- Temporary exhibition “We are art”, Crojash Gallery, August 2025.
- Temporary exhibition “Visual Dialogues”, Carcamo Gallery, October 2025.
- Temporary exhibition “Imaginaire”, Carcamo Gallery, March 2026.
- Galería Siglo XXI, Polanco, Mexico City.
- Hyatt Regency Mexico City, Gal. 21st century.
- Crojash Gallery, Historic Center of Puebla, Puebla.
- Carcamo Gallery, San Pedro Garza García, Monterrey, Nuevo León.
- Carcamo Gallery, El Paso, Texas. Downtown, USA
GRACIA TENORIO
Gracia Tenorio was born and raised in Mexico and settled in Canada more than twenty years ago.
She holds two master's degrees from Carleton University: one in International Affairs and the other in Art History and Curatorial Studies. Committed to education and cultural dissemination, she has taught Hispanic languages and cultures for several years at a French-speaking institution of higher education.
She currently works as a Curatorial Assistant for Contemporary Art at one of Canada's leading museum institutions.
A few years ago, she returned to drawing, inspired in part by Henri
Matisse's famous reflection: "There are always flowers for those who want to see them." For her, this idea represents an invitation to discover the beauty that surrounds us, beginning with nature and flowers.
Through these pieces, she explores the idea that our roots are always part of our identity and the unique magic we carry within us, blending and transforming with the new nuances we encounter along our journey through life.
Her most recent project is the creation of an authorized biography of a
contemporary Indigenous artist from Mexico. With this work, Gracia seeks to contribute to the education of new generations about the enormous historical, artistic, and cultural value of contemporary Indigenous artists.
BRIGITTE FOURNIER
BRIMI is a multidisciplinary artist based in Quebec, Canada, whose creative path is marked by a solid background in architecture, classical ballet, and visual arts. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from La Salle University in Mexico City and is currently pursuing a Certificate in Art History at Laval University in Quebec, deepening her understanding of artistic expression and cultural heritage.
Her professional career began in Mexico, where she worked as an architect designing various architectural projects. This experience cultivated in her a deep sensitivity to beauty, harmony, and detail. Architecture taught her to observe the world with precision and to express herself through drawing and visual composition, skills that naturally evolved into her current artistic practice.
In addition to her architectural training, she has dedicated many years to the art of movement, practicing classical ballet since the age of four. This lifelong relationship with dance enriches her artistic vision, imbuing her work with rhythm, grace, and emotional depth.
Today she continues to cultivate her passion for watercolor, a technique that allows her to express herself in the most authentic way. Her artistic voice is deeply influenced by her Mexican heritage, which she celebrates through vibrant colors, symbolic imagery, and cultural narratives.
In 2024, she presented Las Catrinas,an exhibition at the Centre de Loisirs de Lebourgneuf in Quebec City. Dedicated to the Day of the Dead, the show highlighted the cultural richness of Mexico while offering a fresh and personal interpretation of this iconic celebration.
Her work gained further recognition in 2025 when she won the competition to design the cover for the book * From the Sierra Madre to the Boreal Universe: An Anthology of Mexican-Canadian Writers*. The book's official launch took place at the Mexican Embassy in Ottawa, marking a significant milestone in her artistic career.
Currently, BRIMI continues to develop her artistic practice, creating visually appealing and culturally resonant works. Her watercolor art reflects a unique combination of expressive fluidity and emotional depth, without ever forgetting the roots that keep her connected to Mexico.
VIRIDIANA HERRADA JIMENEZ
Viridiana Herrada is a Mexican artist based in Canada, specializing in mixed media art. Her work combines textures, reclaimed materials, organic elements, and sculptural techniques to create pieces that explore transformation, memory, and the beauty of imperfection.
Inspired by nature, femininity and her cultural roots, she transforms forgotten materials into contemporary works full of meaning.
His work invites the viewer to discover new forms of beauty in what usually goes unnoticed.
Contemporary mixed media art created from reclaimed materials, sculptural textures, flowers, and organic elements.
AMARILIS CULTURAL GROUP
Grupo Cultural Amarilis is an independent organization founded in 2022 in Tlaxcala, dedicated to the promotion, management and dissemination of art and culture, with a special focus on the rescue of ancestral roots and Mexican traditions.
Since its inception, Amarilis has worked to create cultural spaces that promote local talent, supporting artisans and artists in showcasing their work. Through the organization of events, exhibitions, and culinary demonstrations, the group seeks to strengthen cultural identity and keep alive the traditions that give meaning to our communities.
Likewise, Amarilis serves as a cultural link that connects projects and people, promoting exchange and participation in different scenarios, both within and outside the country, providing support in processes that allow participants to expand their opportunities.
Amarilis is culture, identity and commitment to our roots
