RICHLAND — An artist known for his portraits of farm workers is speaking this week to Mid-Columbia educators and students as part the WSU Tri-Cities early outreach programs.
Simón Silva has appeared before thousands of students of all ages nationwide, focusing on the importance of self-expression and developing personal creativity. His speeches include anecdotes from his childhood and his own journey toward a successful career as an artist.
He will speak from 8 to 10:30 a.m. May 7 at WSU Tri-Cities in East Auditorium, 2710 University Drive, Richland. While his 90-minute presentation is targeted at university faculty and staff, especially those in the GEAR UP and Latina/o Early Outreach programs, the session at WSU Tri-Cities is open to the public and admission is free.
Silva’s paintings depict stylized portraits of farm workers bending to harvest crops, suns radiating heat, and picturesque fields and valleys.
“My images are simplistic, powerful, beautiful, and about the Chicano culture,” Silva said. “I have used these images — scenes I used to be ashamed of — to empower myself and other Chicanos.”
Silva is visiting GEAR UP and Latina/o Outreach schools throughout the region. Check with each school specific times and to confirm media access to the sessions.
• Stevens Middle School in Pasco, 12 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 5
• Ephrata Middle School, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wednesday, May 6
• Soap Lake Middle School, 12:30 to 5 p.m., Wednesday, May 6
• College Place Middle School, 12 to 5 p.m. Thursday, May 7
• North Franklin schools in Connell, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, May 8
Next Story
Regents approve new degree programs, discuss faculty listening sessions
Members of the Washington State University Board of Regents authorized three new degree programs as part of a slate of nearly two dozen action items approved during Friday’s meeting on the Spokane campus.
Recent News
New clinic improves access to timely care for children with autism spectrum disorder
In its first year of operation, WSU’s Autism and Neurodevelopmental Clinic has reduced wait times for eastern Washington children with ASD and their families.
Mellon Foundation awards $1.5 million grant to WSU’s Mukurtu platform
The grant will help sustain the digital platform that helps Indigenous communities manage and protect their cultural and linguistic heritage, intellectual property, and traditional knowledge.
Mary Garcia receives Excellence in Online Teaching Award
Garcia, a human development instructor for WSU, will receive $3,000 in faculty development funds and a trophy in recognition of her win.
WSU institutes new wildfire smoke policy for employees
The emergence of regular wildfire seasons in the Pacific Northwest recently prompted the state of Washington to enact new regulations to protect outdoor workers.
Students design outdoor story walk for Keller schools
A group of WSU landscape architecture students is gaining hands‑on experience by designing an outdoor classroom with members of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Indian Reservation.
Diversity in STEM conference shapes DGRP student’s perspective on research, and career path
Shawnee Kasanke was selected to attend the 2023 Society of Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science National Diversity in STEM Conference last fall.