(Cris Lira/Photo Contributed All Events Johnson City)

Monday, September 9, from 3 to 5 p.m., Brazilian poet Cris Lira will be coming to ETSU as part of the “Migracion: Latinx” exhibition for both a poetry reading and student mentoring.

Lira holds a Ph.D. in romance languages and is the supervisor of the Portuguese program at the University of Georgia. Her research focuses on contemporary Brazilian and Latin American literature and culture. She is the author of “No pais da infancia” (My Childhood County) and “Ponte pare o Poente” (Bridge to the Sunset).

“This exhibition not only celebrates artistic expression but also aims to provoke thoughtful discussions on the Latinx experience in todays globalized world,” says Karlota Contreras-Koterbay, a member of the Department of Art and Design and director of ETSU Slocumb Galleries.

Lira’s visit is funded by an ETSU Student Activities Allocation Committee (SAAC) grant. It is a preamble for the Language and Culture Resource Center’s Dia de las Familias, a celebration of Latinx culture and families in September 2024 at ETSU commemorating Hispanic Week.

“The exhibition and poetry reading also helps promote the upcoming Dia de las Familias at ETSU campus and foregrounds the upcoming Latin Culture week. Representation and presence are crucial in the evolution of national identity and acceptance of deep and long migrant history of the country and its significant contribution to the strength of the communities.” Koterbay states.

The “Migracion: Latinx” exhibition is focused on providing a platform for Latinx artists to share their narratives. Through these narratives, the exhibition is bringing work to ETSU that tells both the individual and communal journeys of resilience along with the richness of Latin American culture.

“The Migracion: Latinx Exhibition is vital in the efforts of visibility and self-representation during an era of political divide is high. The artist’s work explores issues of resilience, displacement, belonging, and joy amidst struggles.”  Koterbay stated.

The Tipton Gallery is located at 126 Spring St., Johnson City. For more information, please contact Karlota Contreras-Koterbay at contrera@etsu.edu.

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