Artist Simon Silva receives Latino Spirit Award

The California Latino Legislative Caucus recently announced that artist Simon Silva was among the the 2021 Latino Spirit Award winners.

Born in Mexicali and raised in Imperial Valley as a migrant field worker, Silva is a distinguished artist, acclaimed speaker and celebrated author. He used his challenging childhood and harsh working conditions as inspiration to pursue a better life, eventually earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in illustration from the ArtCenter College of Design.

Silva’s artwork is known worldwide and reflects his message of hope, perseverance, and individuality. Silva frequently travels the country sharing how to “Cultivate a Creative Mind” at his in-demand workshops and keynotes in order to inspire others to overcome their obstacles and embrace their individuality.

Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia, D-Coachella, on Monday congratulated Silva on the award.

“I am incredibly proud to recognize the achievements of Simón Silva, whose artwork is deeply rooted by his experience growing up in Imperial Valley,” Garcia said in a written statement. “Simón Silva has used his mastery of visual arts to celebrate our vibrant immigrant culture and educate others with vivid stories of farmworker families.”

The Latino Spirit Awards were established in 2002 at the State Capitol to coincide with California’s acknowledgment of Cinco de Mayo and to highlight positive role models in the Latino community. Every year, the California Latino Legislative Caucus honors Latinos/as in various categories that range from athletics to public service and human rights.

“Every year, the Latino Spirit Awards allows us to spotlight the achievements of Latinos in various industries who have emerged as changemakers or role models in California,” Garcia said. “I have been hoping to have my Latino Caucus colleagues award Simón Silva for some time, and I am grateful for this opportunity to honor one of our own Imperial Valley heroes.”