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Santiago López

I'm an aspiring artist, illustrator and storyteller with autism. I believe art has the power to drive, inspire and motivate positive change, raise awareness and advance social justice. I've worked as an art teacher's assistant at a public elementary school in San Diego and painted collective community murals. I recently graduated with a Studio Arts degree from San Diego City College with plans to continue my art education.

In 2024 I was recognized as one of 15 VSA Emerging Young Artists by the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. My work has been featured in publications, and exhibited at places like OECD Headquarters Gallery in Paris, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, California Center for the Arts and Nickelodeon Gallery. In 2024 I was selected to represent the United States and traveled to an international art exhibition and forum for the Paralympic Games in Paris. 

You can learn more about me and my work by visiting my website santiagolopezstudio.com

Santiago López's collections

 

Champions Beyond Limits. The Paralympic Journey.

<p><em>So, you watched the 2024 Olympics in Paris...what's next? </em><em></em>Dive into this learning lab, where students and teachers will discover everything they need to appreciate the incredible Paralympic athletes who redefine what it means to push human limits. Uncover the diversity of different Paralympic sports, the creativity behind medal designs, and the energy of the Paris 2024 Games. There is an activity guide for high school, middle school and elementary school students.  I believe the Paralympics have a profound impact on public perception and disability rights. They challenge stereotypes, promote inclusivity, and drive positive social and economic change, leaving a lasting legacy that benefits athletes and community at large. </p> <p>My name is Santiago López and I'm an artist and storyteller with autism. With my work, I hope to spark a shift and flip the script. In 2024, I was selected to represent the United States at ArtPara during the Paralympics. Soon, I will be joining other artists with disabilities from 5 continents in Paris. With this learning lab, I hope others will join me and 4,400 athletes from around the globe on the Paralympic journey.  </p>
Santiago López
26
 

Trailblazers with Disabilities

<p>Welcome to Trailblazers with Disabilities, a transformative learning lab designed to empower middle and high school students and teachers. Despite being the largest minority group in the world, people with disabilities are often left out. Explore the inspiring stories and achievements of individuals with disabilities and discover how to foster inclusivity and understanding. You will find an activity guide for teachers with lesson plans, art and other activities designed to inspire, educate and promote awareness and understanding of disability issues. Using these resources students can learn about disability rights, accessibility and how to challenge stereotypes associated with disabilities. </p> <p>My name is Santiago López. I'm the creator of this learning lab, an aspiring artist, illustrator and storyteller with autism.</p> <p><br></p>
Santiago López
18
 

Interpreting the Great Wall of Los Angeles

<p>The rich and varied history of Chicano culture is overlooked or marginalized in mainstream society. The Great Wall of Los Angeles is a monumental public artwork that addresses the lack of representation for marginalized communities in mainstream American history. By redefining typical narratives of the past, this mural gives a more diverse and inclusive point of view. In this learning lab you can learn more about Judy Baca the artist behind this artwork and how it was created.  Using the Cultural Populist model of cultural studies you can explore and interpret this remarkable mural.  </p>
Santiago López
24