Festival Latino

Adams County Festival Latino is excited to bring art to the forefront of celebration, with immersive and interactive installations unique to Adams County’s Festival Latino! Learn more about the artists below.

Artists Nikki Pike and Maureen Hearty bring their community-focused initiative, bARTer collective, to Festival Latino 2026 for a story swap. The bARTer collective is a collective of artists, designers, educators, thought provokers, dreamers, service workers, and citizens who host a mobile exchange space, reimagining the contemporary notion of exchange of currency for product or service.

Together with community, they create dynamic situations that present alternative means of exchange where active creation gives way to goods and services. They would gladly trade the mass produced for blowing kisses and hand-written notes.

Learn more about bARTer collective on their website and social media.

Julio Mendoza, known as Juls, is a Denver-based multi-disciplinary artist whose work celebrates his cultural heritage through a distinctive style he calls “Surrealismo Cultural” or “Cultural Surrealism.” His art centers on themes of Cultural Identity, Community, and Social Justice, creating pieces that resonate deeply with diverse audiences. For Juls, the greatest gift is the ability to draw inspiration from his traditions, food, people, and vibrant cultural colors.

Juls will bring a unique printmaking experience to this year’s festival, giving attendees a chance to create their own prints using a traditional tortilla press.

Learn more about Juls on his website and social media.

Maribel Arredondo is a Mexican artist, cultural educator, and founder of Curious Paper Art by Mamibel, dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich traditions of Mexican folk art through hands-on, community-centered experiences.

Originally from Monterrey, Mexico, and now based in Colorado, Maribel creates vibrant works inspired by Mexican heritage, specializing in traditional piñatas, papier-mâché sculptures, calaveras, papel picado, and festive decorations. Through her workshops, public art, and cultural events, she invites people of all ages and backgrounds to discover the beauty, history, and symbolism behind these traditional art forms.

Keep your eyes out for Maribel’s larger-than-life mojigangas making their way through the crowd.

Learn more about Maribel on her social media.

Wey Mnky is an Aurora, Colorado–based artist and graphic designer known for his bold use of color and detailed designs. His work is inspired by graffiti, pop art, contemporary art, illustration, and abstract art. He creates artwork that sparks imagination through playful characters, creative themes, and eye-catching compositions.

Wey Mnky brings a series of new hand-painted wooden sculptures to Festival Latino. Make sure to find all of them placed throughout the event!

Learn more about Wey Mnky on their website and social media.