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The Art of Belonging: How Raquel Found Community Through Art

As part of our annual campaign, “The Art of Belonging,” Kennedy Heights Arts Center is sharing stories that highlight individuals whose lives have been enriched through our programs —and how your support makes a difference. In this post, we share the inspiring journey of Raquel Sotelo, whose life was transformed by her creative expression and the support of the arts community.

When Raquel first came to Cincinnati from Peru in 2020, she had no idea how much her life would change. What was supposed to be a short visit turned into an indefinite stay when COVID-19 travel restrictions kept her from returning home. In the span of a few months, Raquel lost her job in Peru, her relationship ended, and she found herself stranded in a foreign country. She was overwhelmed, isolated, and searching for a way to process her emotions.

Art as a Tool for Healing

One day, in an attempt to calm her mind, Raquel began painting small rocks she found in the local park. She decorated them with intricate designs and vibrant colors, using this simple creative activity as an outlet for her emotions. Then, something magical happened.

Kennedy Heights resident Michael Thompson, a violin maker and a friend of the family Raquel was staying with, saw her painted rocks and asked, “Who is the artist?” Raquel shyly replied, “There are no artists here.” But Michael insisted, pointing to her rocks, “Did you paint this? You are an artist!”

Though Raquel had never considered herself an artist—in Peru, she’d been a social worker—Michael saw her potential. He encouraged her to paint a violin, but she hesitated, feeling she wasn’t skilled enough. With Michael’s encouragement, she eventually took on the challenge. Despite not knowing where to buy paints, not speaking English fluently, and having to navigate a new city, Raquel poured herself into the project. Her colorful, intricate design on the violin caught the eye of those around her, and she began to wonder if perhaps, after all, she was an artist.

Discovering Community at Kennedy Heights Arts Center

Through Michael, Raquel discovered Kennedy Heights Arts Center (KHAC). When she stepped inside and saw the gallery and the community of artists there, something inside her awakened. She joined the Kennedy Artist Collective, a diverse group of creators who encouraged her and helped her feel at home. She began taking classes at KHAC, with ceramics becoming a favorite medium. For Raquel, working with clay was transformative, an experience that taught her about growth, patience, and possibility.

At the Arts Center, Raquel’s sense of belonging grew as she connected with others, explored her artistic voice, and engaged in meaningful conversations about unity and diversity. These discussions inspired her to use art as a way of promoting healing and understanding—a concept that has since become central to her life’s work.

Believing in Herself, Inspiring Others

When a friend invited her to participate in the Norwood International Art Festival, Raquel was hesitant. “I’m not ready,” she thought. But with the encouragement of her new community, she took the leap. To her surprise and delight, she won first prize. The blue ribbon she received that day wasn’t just an award; it was a powerful affirmation that her art and her voice were valued.

Since then, Raquel has gone on to exhibit her work in galleries throughout Cincinnati, including Kennedy Heights Arts Center, Wave Pool, and Gallery 708. She’s now sharing her gift with the community by teaching art workshops to children and adults in libraries, churches, and at KHAC itself. “Kennedy Heights Arts Center gave me so many opportunities to share my art and connect with others,” Raquel says. “Art made me feel included. I don’t feel like a stranger anymore.”

For Raquel, art became more than just a creative outlet; it became a path to belonging. Her dream now is to help others discover the healing power of art, just as she has. She envisions creating more spaces for people to explore art as a tool for healing and connection.

Help Us Build Community Through Art

When you donate to Kennedy Heights Arts Center, you are helping make stories like Raquel’s possible. Your support provides a space for people from all walks of life to discover their creativity, connect with others, and find a sense of belonging. Through “The Art of Belonging” campaign, we are building a community where everyone is welcome, everyone has a voice, and everyone can thrive.

Your gift can be the encouragement someone needs to believe in themselves. Together, let’s make more dreams come true and foster a community where everyone feels they belong.

Donate today.