Betsy Z. Casañas

Betsy's work is an autobiographical visual and written composition that combines themes of abuse, abandonment, vulnerability, sexuality, and family. She has overcome many obstacles in her life as a single mother, poet, singer, painter, and teacher and has always been eager to reevaluate herself and her surroundings in order to learn and grow as an individual and a member of her community. Growing up in the neglected and chaotic Latino barrio in North Philadelphia inspired her to work with her community to improve the situation, always believing that they deserved better. Her work with youth, gives them a chance to develop their own voice and involve them in the community as well. These projects have taken her from el barrio in North Philadelphia to poor villages in Central and South America. Betsy hopes that one of her most recent works, Cruzando el Charco a mural depicting the Puerto Rican migration to Philadelphia will lead to a more profound and lasting impact by inspiring members of the community to learn more of their history. As an artist, Betsy feels a desire and an obligation to facilitate change. She continues her work in transforming her community, determined to empower those whose voices have been lost.