Studio art major Citlali Delgado has made history as the first New Mexico State University student to be accepted into the highly competitive Yale Norfolk School of Art’s Summer Residency Program. Delgado's accomplishment has been hailed by art professor Craig Cully, who highlighted the significance of this achievement and the recognition of her hard work and talent.
Born and raised in El Paso, Delgado draws inspiration from the social and political issues prevalent in the border region. Reflecting on her experience at NMSU, Delgado expressed gratitude for the platform it has provided her to advocate for her community authentically. She stated, “NMSU has really allowed me to flourish with my work and sink into what drives me. Attending this university has allowed me to be where the issues are and authentically advocate for my community.”
Delgado's artistic prowess was on full display at the NMSU Art Museum’s Juried Student Show, where her piece "Coatlicue" garnered multiple awards including Best in Show. The painting, a 54-inch by 42-inch oil piece inspired by the Aztec goddess of the same name, was personally selected by El Paso-born artist Celia Álvarez, marking a significant achievement for Delgado.
Discussing the inspiration behind another of her works, “Profile Patrol,” Delgado emphasized the importance of addressing pressing social issues through art. She stated, “It’s important to me to speak about these issues and advocate for the border community. These awards validate the long hours I’ve spent day and night in the studio, but as for the subject matter, the recognition comes within the communities being depicted and affected.”
Delgado's commitment to artistic activism is further evident in her piece “Xolos Unidos,” currently displayed at the El Paso Museum of Art for the Border Biennial 2024 exhibition. Delgado's work has not only gained recognition within artistic circles but has also been featured in Texas Monthly, underscoring the impact of her creative activism.
As Delgado prepares to embark on the Yale Norfolk School of Art’s Summer Residency Program, she recognizes the opportunity as a significant milestone that will open doors for both herself and other young artists. Delgado emphasized the importance of representation, stating, “As the first person from NMSU to be accepted, I know I’m there to represent my heritage, my hometown and my college. I want this to be a trend for future students because we deserve to be in these spaces.”
Delgado's journey to the prestigious residency program serves as a testament to her talent, dedication, and unwavering commitment to advocating for marginalized communities through her art. Her groundbreaking achievement paves the way for aspiring artists from underrepresented backgrounds to carve their paths in the art world.