No. 126: Carolina Loyola Garcia: Stories Through the Lens

In the latest episode of the RuggedAngel Cast, host Kahmeela Adams sits down with the incredibly talented Carolina Loyola Garcia, a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans photography, dance, and filmmaking. This episode is a deep dive into Carolina’s artistic journey, her passion for capturing stories, and her involvement with the #notwhite collective, a group of women artists in Pittsburgh who share a common bond of being “not white.”

Carolina’s love for the arts began at a young age in her native Santiago de Chile, where she first delved into theater. Her artistic path took a significant turn when she discovered photography during college, a medium that allowed her to connect deeply with people and their stories. This newfound passion led her to film school and eventually to Pittsburgh, where she pursued her MFA at Carnegie Mellon University.

Throughout the episode, Carolina shares heartfelt stories about her family, particularly her uncle, Ranger Rick, a park ranger in Brooklyn who was a significant creative influence in her life. Her current project focuses on documenting his fascinating and multifaceted life, a testament to her dedication to preserving personal and cultural histories.

One of the most compelling parts of the conversation is Carolina’s discussion about the #notwhite collective. This group provides a supportive and empowering space for women artists, who belong to the global majority, to share their stories and amplify their voices. Carolina emphasizes the importance of witnessing and being witnessed, a theme that resonates deeply throughout her work and this episode.

Carolina’s journey is a testament to the power of art in bridging cultural gaps and creating meaningful connections. Her dedication to her craft and her community is truly inspiring. Whether you’re an artist, a storyteller, or someone who appreciates the beauty of diverse narratives, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen to the full episode