FROM CLASSROOM TO CURATOR: THE JOURNEY OF LUISA FERNANDA PEREZ

Why did you choose the Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts? What drew you to the arts?

A dear undergraduate professor, Dr. Melissa Warak, suggested UH to me when I was a Senior at The University of Texas, El Paso. She mentioned that the program had great professors and that Houston was a great city for the arts. I am so happy I followed her advice!

What is one of your favorite memories from your time on campus? Was there a particular professor who influenced your education?

My cohort had to spend the first year remotely as COVID-19 peaked. Therefore, we were all (professors, students, and staff) trying to navigate the online remote world. We were back on campus during my second year, and I enjoyed walking around the art building. I come from the desert, so having such a green campus was new to me; walking around with my headphones helped to clear my head whenever I felt overwhelmed.

Another memorable experience—though not great at the time—was defending my thesis. My thesis focused on a deeply personal and difficult subject: feminicidios (femicides) in my hometown. As I neared the end of my presentation, I began to cry. I managed to read the final phrase but had to excuse myself to blow my nose in the nearest restroom, I was SO embarrassed. However, everyone was very kind and supportive. Right after, I had a conversation with artists, curators, and art organizers from Ciudad Juárez, which made me feel much better (community is everything!). They understood why I had cried and reminded me that there’s no shame in feeling—after all, that’s why art is so powerful.

Tell us about a typical day in your job. Do you have a particular philosophy around art and creating?

There is no typical day! Every day seems different, mainly because working for a non-profit means you have to wear many hats, so you have many projects, responsibilities, and possibilities.

Who were the most influential professors or mentors you encountered, and how did they impact your education and career?

Dr. Roberto Tejada was an incredible mentor who encouraged me to experiment with my writing and helped me find the right words when I struggled to express myself. Dr. Dorota Biczel - now in New York - had such a strong presence and inspired me to become a better Art Historian. Dr. Arden Decker and Dr. Liz Donato from ICAA at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston were a constant source of support, always making me feel as though they were rooting for me, which made all the difference.

Through the University of Houston I also had the privilege of working with Ryan Dennis for a year. I was so intimidated by her, nonetheless she was always so patient, kind and welcoming, reminding me that I truly belonged whenever I doubted myself.

What is one career accomplishment of which you are particularly proud of? How do you feel your College education prepared you for this?

I never really saw myself as a Curator, but during my time as a student at UH, I realized that art would take me down many unexpected paths—roads I never could have imagined. I decided that I might as well enjoy the ride and experiment as much as I can. Grad school also gave me the opportunity to connect with great people and the space to experiment!

What is one valuable lesson you learned during your time as a student at the School of Art?

Don’t trust the Chicago style citation generator, unfortunately you still have to learn how to do it yourself.

Do you have a manifesto? if so, how does it influence your life and work?

These questions are intense… I don't think I have a formal manifesto, but there is this undeniable drive, like an electricity that pulses through me when we’re planning and executing a new exhibition. It sparks during conversations with artists, when I see my team excited about a project, when the public walks through the galleries, when we have a workshop with our communities…

How has your industry changed since you started, and what trends do you see emerging?

There was a lot less of a spotlight on Latine/x artists, I see more now, especially in Texas. I think we’ll see more themes of resistance and resilience for the next few years…

What advice would you give to new graduates entering your field?

Have an open mind to where the field can take you. There is no perfect job, but allow yourself to experience and find what you really like; it’s ok if you don’t know right away.

What legacy do you hope to leave?

At the Mexic-Arte Museum, we run an internship program that offers stipends and mentorship to eight undergraduate students per cohort. While it requires a lot of work, it has been an incredibly rewarding experience, as it allows us to connect with the next generation. I want to continue to learn how to be a resource for new generations!

How can alumni or current students connect with you or follow your work?

You can email me at luisap@mexicartemuseum.org or dm me on IG luisa_ferperez

What final piece of advice would you offer to anyone reading your spotlight?

This is for my POCs, especially immigrants. It’s completely normal and understandable to feel discouraged at times, but know that we are needed here, and there will be people along the way who will help you succeed. Please keep going! Es tiempo de contar nuestras propias historias.