2025 CHRYSALIS AWARDEE

announcing the 2025 chrysalis winner in mixed media

Artist Alvaro Villa has been announced as the 2025 Chrysalis Awardee in mixed media.

Alvaro is a Mexican-American mixed media artist whose work is deeply tied to his identity and spirituality. He uses ceramics as a grounding practice to connect with his ancestors and work with the four elements of water, earth, wind and fire, while incorporating other materials, including glass, fabric, broomcorn, wood and paint. Through his work, Alvaro explores the magic and spirituality embedded in everyday objects. Whether through ceramics, hand-sewing, or rituals like sweeping, Alvaro’s work becomes a form of healing and a way to channel energy and intention, by infusing domestic objects like brooms or clothing irons with symbolism to honor personal memories and cultural practices.

As the Chyrsalis Awardee, Alvaro will receive a one-year JRACraft membership, a $5,000 unrestricted award, and will present an artist talk in Spring 2026.

www.alvarovilla.com

Sun Broom and the Inner Planets, Alvaro Villa

Broom Rifle, Alvaro Villa

Both-And Over Either-Or, Alvaro Villa

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​2025 honorable mention, Sanah Brown-Bowers

The jurors also selected artist Sanah Brown-Bowers as the 2025 Chrysalis Award Honorable Mention.

Sanah Brown-Bowers is a self-taught artist whose vibrant and detailed acrylic and oil paintings celebrate Black joy and the enduring strength of family bonds. Her work draws inspiration from her childhood in 1980s Queens, New York, and often features portraits of her family members alongside pop art elements, whimsical details, and found objects that create a sense of nostalgia and wonder. Through her art, Sanah seeks to honor her ancestors and restore hope to a community whose history and identity have often been marginalized and erased. 

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​www.sanahbrownbowers.com

The Kings Court Barbershop, Sanah Brown Bowers

Wisdom, Sanah Brown Bowers

My Double Dutch Family, Sanah Brown Bowers