Article by:
Richard A. Mueller
Rick Ramirez Ledesma captivates audiences with his solo exhibition, "Nuestra Gente" (Our People). The exhibition is showing at the Pearson Community Center, 1625 W Carey Ave, North Las Vegas, until October 6. Pearson Community Center's operating hours are Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The center is closed on Sundays.
The exhibition's reception is scheduled for October 5 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., allowing art enthusiasts and community members to engage with the artist and celebrate the result of his countless hours of observing, exploration and connection. Additionally, a workshop will be held on September 20 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Pearson Community Center in Multipurpose Room A, providing participants with insights into Rick RL's photography practice. Interested attendees can register for the workshop at www.tinyurl.com/photowithrickRL.
Rick R. Ledesma is a first-generation Mexican-American Chicano photographer born in Oxnard, California. Having spent over a decade in Arizona, he picked up his first digital camera and started documenting the lives of community members. Living in Vegas since 2019, he has photographed and collaborated with various communities and organizations within Nevada, helping document current issues and supporting cultural awareness projects and events. With a passion for capturing the essence of diverse communities, Rick RL's work showcases these groups' beauty, resilience, and heritage. His art serves as a bridge between cultures and encourages conversations about identity and shared experiences.
"Nuestra Gente" celebrates the lively spirit that thrives within the Black, Brown, and Native/Indigenous members of the Las Vegas communities. The exhibition encapsulates Las Vegas communities and organizations, presenting intimate portraits and candid moments illuminating a diverse society's rich heritage and shared experiences. Rick RL empowers and enlightens through his lens, offering viewers a profound exploration of identity and culture.
The Pearson Community Center is a vibrant hub for cultural engagement and community development. Located in North Las Vegas, the center hosts various events, exhibitions, and workshops that celebrate diversity, foster creativity, and promote meaningful connections among residents.