In this very special episode, Nancy and Jose are joined in studio by Katie Ruiz, an incredible artist and author who finds that creation is healing. Whether it is her work in painting or fiber sculpture, she finds solace and comfort. She is most well known for her blanket series in which she portrays couples standing or lying under colorful Mexican blankets. Geometric patterns and bright colors are reiterated throughout her work. She is also known for her activism work with refugees, The Pompom Project and children’s book, Brian The Wildflower.

And how did she find her journey and the inspiration for much of her work? From real life losses, absent the ability to process what she was feeling. From the loss of her grandmother to the divorce of her parents to the loss of her first love in a tragic accident, Katie discovered the power of creation in all forms as a way to process grief. Just a wonderful and timely conversation.

Thank you, Katie, for your contributions to art, literacy, children, the processing of life's losses, and for joining us on The Gap Minders.

Enjoy this episode and be sure to subscribe to the show.

If you have any questions or want to contact Nancy or Jose, please send an email to podcast@uwsd.org. Thank you for listening.

To learn more about the two social impact organizations making The Gap Minders possible, please visit www.TheGapMinders.org.