Elgin Papel Picado
The Papel Picado Project was born from a collective desire by Elgin-area partners to elevate and engage underserved voices through culture and art while training youth in trade skills. Centro de Información's priorities and client base made it the perfect catalyst for organizing Elgin immigrants and residents to share their stories and histories, using Papel Picado as a template and safe way to communicate. Artists Cristina Colunga and Andrés Rivera used these stories and images as inspiration for the large Papel Picado sculpture. In partnership with the Housing Authority’s YouthBuild Program and the City of Elgin’s Department of Cultural Arts & Special Events (DCASE), these images were transferred to a wooden base, cut out and painted. DCASE staff and volunteers mentored the YouthBuild participants in constructing this art piece.
The finished product was unveiled as a large-scale artwork at La Fiesta de Elgin on September 14, 2024. The piece is expected to travel to various locations including Centro’s main office in Elgin, the Well Child Center, Centro’s new office at Food for Greater Elgin and other locations.
The Papel Picado Project was made possible with support by the Seigle Foundation, Centro de Información, the City of Elgin's Department of Cultural Arts and Special Events, and The Housing Authority’s YouthBuild. Special thanks to the following individuals who oversaw the construction and fabrication of the Papel Picado Project: Freddrick Wimms, Missy Funk, George Stefley, Garrett Paula, Valerie Jenig, Hallie Morrison, and Peter Tomeczko.
To request more information about the Papel Picado Project or have it visit your event or site, please contact: communications@centrodeinformacion.org
