The Seguin Public Library will be the first home of “Our Town Seguin,” a new art exhibit that explores Seguin’s past as seen through the eyes of its communities of color.

The exhibit, opening at the library later this month, is made possible through a National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) grant and a partnership between Teatro De Artes De Juan Seguin, the City of Seguin, the Seguin Public Library, and Seguin Main Street. This collaborative effort is one of only three projects in Texas — and just 57 nationwide — to receive NEA funding in 2023.

“The unification of these three profoundly significant art installations has been over two years in the making, and I am overjoyed to witness this vision come to life,” said Dr. Yvonne De La Rosa, Executive Director of Teatro De Artes De Juan Seguin. “When I sat down to write the grant alongside my mother, the late Vickie De La Rosa, we dreamed of these works being brought into the very school district where we both taught, served, and held deep affection. As lifelong educators and devoted community members, we understood the transformative power of young people seeing, learning, and connecting with their collective histories through art.”

Artists representing the Native American/Indigenous, African American, and Mexican American/Tejano communities were selected to create the installations based on the stories of Seguin residents. Community members were invited to share their family histories through pláticas and interviews, which will be archived at the Seguin Public Library for future generations.

The exhibit will feature three installations:

“La Tierra Habla: A Celebration of Mexican American Art, Life, and Enduring Spirit” by Debora Kuetzpal Vasquez

“Roots of Resilience: The African American Experience in Seguin through Art and Legacy” by Howard Crunk

“Echoes of Tradition: Unveiling Indigenous Voice and Visions Tripico of Light” by Ruben Esquivel

Together, these works reflect Seguin’s people and history through the lens of its diverse communities.

We are deeply honored to serve as the inaugural home of the completed Our Town Seguin community project exhibit. Hosting this meaningful display is both a privilege and a celebration of Seguin’s rich cultural heritage, fostering connection, reflection, and pride through the arts. At the library, we strive to provide a welcoming space where every visitor feels a sense of belonging. This exhibit stands as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration and creativity said Silvia Christy, Seguin Public Library Director.

“We’re proud to host Our Town Seguin because it reflects the very heart of our community. Preserving local stories through art strengthens our shared identity and unites us in a truly meaningful way.”

Teatro De Artes De Juan Seguin will host a ribbon cutting for “Our Town Seguin” at the Seguin Public Library on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at 3 p.m. The public is invited to attend the celebration and view the exhibit, which will remain on display through March 26, 2026. This event is partially being funded by Teatro De Artes De Juan Seguin, National Endowment for the Arts, City of Seguin, Seguin Public Library, Seguin Main Street, and the Friends of the Seguin Public Library.