HOLA Arts & Culture Committee
Members of the HOLA Arts & Culture Committee, with Solome Espinoza, the committee director, at the center, working together to celebrate and promote our community's rich cultural and artistic heritage.
History of the HOLA Ohio Arts and Culture Committee
Founded in 2005, the HOLA Ohio Arts and Culture Committee has been a key component in the organization’s mission to preserve and promote the cultural richness of the Latino community in Northeast Ohio. Conceived as a space for artistic development, the Committee began its activities as a children's dance group dedicated to teaching and preserving Mexican traditions.
The project was founded and continues to be led by Salomé Espinoza, originally from León, Guanajuato, Mexico, who has over 34 years of experience in the arts and training at the Casa de la Cultura de León. Mr. Espinoza found in HOLA Ohio a platform to share his expertise and pass on his knowledge to new generations.
In its early years, the group faced significant challenges, including the lack of a suitable physical space for rehearsals. For several years, Kiwanis Recreation Park in Painesville, Ohio, served as their practice space, overcoming the limitations of the weather. Despite the scarcity of resources for costumes and other necessities, the dedication and commitment of the participants made it possible for the Committee to perform at various events throughout the region.
Over time, the project has experienced continuous growth, attracting not only children but also their parents, which has led to a broader community of participants. For many, the Committee has become a way to reconnect with their cultural roots, especially for those who immigrated to the United States at a young age or have not had the opportunity to visit their countries of origin.
The role of women in the Committee has been essential, not only as dancers but also as creators of costumes and makeup artists, significantly contributing to the authenticity of each performance.
Francisca Mares
Blanca Montes
Rosario Chávez
On May 5, 2022, HOLA inaugurated its Hispanic Community Center in Painesville, a $2.1 million project that revitalized a previously deteriorated structure. This new space has strengthened the Arts and Culture Committee by providing suitable facilities for rehearsals and community activities.
Currently, the Committee consists of 15 active members, including some of its founders such as Rosario Chávez, Blanca Montes, Francisca Mares, José Mares, Bryan and Brandon Montes, and Salomé Espinoza, who continue to promote arts and culture in the community.
In addition to dance, the Committee has expanded its range of activities to include the creation of piñatas, catrinas, and decorations for events, always in collaboration with the community. The goal is to continue expanding this space, not only for the Mexican community but for the entire Latino community, celebrating the diversity that defines it.
For more information or to join our activities, please contact the HOLA Ohio Community Center offices.