Ray Bacasegua Valdez is a Native American of Nahua/Yaqui (Yoeme) ancestry—and he’s so much more. He’s an artist who works with the Washoe County School District; he’s director of the American Indian Movement of Northern Nevada; and he’s a father. He was born in Kingsville, Texas, and has lived in Reno for 26 years. He markets his art not only in the Reno area, but throughout “Turtle Island.” (Turtle Island is a Native American name for the Earth or North America. The turtle, which symbolizes wisdom and longevity, holds the continents on her back.) Over the years, he has created many murals for the Washoe County School District, and others, including one on the water tank above Rancho San Rafael. In addition to his art, he holds ceremonies in the Nevada prison system and throughout Nevada. Visit www.rayvaldezstudio.com to learn more about his works.

His Medicina exhibit will be on display at the Savage Mystic Gallery for the month of November. His reception will be held on Friday November 21st from 6pm - 8pm. This is a free all-ages event with light refreshments and words from the artist.