The Ultimate 2023 Latina-Owned Gift Guide

Frida Kahlo

It’s impossible to discuss Latina artists and not start with Frida Kahlo. This Mexican painter has been recognized all over the world for her surreal and symbolic paintings. Rooted in her own life and complex inner world, Frida’s art tackles important themes like race, identity, gender, and postcolonialism. Latinos and people from all over the world, especially women, can find something to relate to within Frida’s paintings because they’re vulnerable, honest, and raw. “The Two Fridas” is only one example of that, and it resonates with Latinos living in the United States who experience duality in their identity.

Amelia Peláez

Amelia Peláez was born in Cuba, where she graduated from the “Academia Nacional de Bellas Artes de San Alejandro” in 1924. She went on to study art in New York and Paris as well, and she’s known as one of the most outstanding painters to come out of Cuba. Her tropical and colonial aesthetics stand out in her work, and she had a wonderful way of working with geometric shapes. Her paintings are defined by bold outlines and stained-glass aesthetics. “Fishes” is one of the best examples of that and the bright colors really jump out of the frame.

Carmen Herrera

Here we have another amazing Cuban painter born in Havana! Carmen Herrera is a minimalist artist who's been painting for over seven decades, but she only gained significant recognition when she was in her 90s. With her striking geometric paintings, she proved that simplicity can carry profound meanings. Her work, like the celebrated "Blanco y Verde" series, beautifully mirrors the balanced integration of her Cuban roots with her life in New York.

Beatriz González

Beatriz González is a versatile artist from Colombia and she’s very well-known for her pop art style. She’s a painter, sculptor, illustrator, curator, historian, and art critic, and her work is exhibited in museums around the world, including Mexico, New York, Houston, and more. Her art is known for its bright colors, roughness, and awkward forms, and for exploring middle-class notions of ethnicity, gender, class, and taste. One of her most well-known pieces is “The Sisga Suicides” I, II, and III, inspired by a heartbreaking story the artist read about in the press.

Clara Ledesma

Clara Ledesma became a part of history as one of the first women to attend the National School of Fine Arts in Santo Domingo. She went on to become one of the most well-known Dominican painters and throughout her career, she played with a variety of styles. Including surrealism, abstraction, and expressionism. One thing about her paintings is that they’re brightly colored and fantastical, bursting with mysticism and magic. That’s why they can transport people into other realms. A great example of that is her popular painting, “Modernist figures with a peacock and other birds.”

Ana Mendieta

Ana Mendieta, a Cuban-American performance artist, sculptor, and painter, used her body as a canvas to express themes of feminism, life, death, and spiritualism. Her "Silueta Series," where she molded her silhouette into outdoor landscapes, created a deeply visceral and moving connection between the body and the earth. This groundbreaking approach to art has left an indelible mark on the art world.

Leonora Carrington

Leonora Carrington was born in the United Kingdom, but she’s of Mexican descent and spent most of her adult years in Mexico City. She was a painter and novelist, known for her surrealist style. Her work is featured in museums all over the world and it stands out due to her grotesque imagery and dark humor. She’s also known for challenging repression within the surrealist movement and embracing nonhuman elements to blur the lines between human, animal, and machine in her paintings. One of her many well-known works is “The Giantess (The Guardian of the Egg),” which perfectly represents her style.

Doris Salcedo

Born and raised in Colombia, Doris Salcedo is known for her large-scale installations and sculptures that communicate powerful messages about the socio-political landscape. Salcedo’s work, such as her installation "Shibboleth," a large crack in the floor of the Tate Modern in London, addresses the themes of racism and colonialism. Her art, both provocative and impactful, continues to echo loudly in modern society.

Margarita Azurdia

Margarita Azurdia was a Guatemalan artist known for her abstract paintings and sculptures. She was also a poet and performance artist. Margarita was a master at blending geometric abstraction with native Guatemalan indigenous textile designs, which is how she paid homage to her country and cultural roots. She used bright, vibrant colors, and one of her most famous abstract paintings is “Pintura 1 (Painting 1).”

Tarsila do Amaral

Hailing from Brazil, Tarsila do Amaral is a significant figure in the Latin American modernist movement. Her work, like the iconic painting "Abaporu," combines elements of Cubism and Surrealism with a distinct Brazilian sensibility. She drew inspiration from indigenous art, creating pieces that were filled with local color, presenting Brazil's vibrant culture to the world.

Each of these phenomenal Latina artists revolutionized the art world in her own unique way. They serve as role models for us, demonstrating that our cultural heritage and personal experiences can be a source of strength and inspiration.

Mountain climbing: Cholitas conquering heights

Cecilia Llusco, an Aymara woman, is one of many Cholitas leading the charge against societal conventions. Raised in Bolivia’s mountains, Llusco’s connection with them runs deep. From her early years assisting her father, a high mountain guide, to going on her own climbing journeys, she’s known for her resilience and determination. She has become a high mountain guide, following in her father’s footsteps while still making the road her own.

The Cholita Climbers

“The Cholita Climbers,” as they're known, refuse to be bound by traditional gender roles. Scaling Huayna Potosí and setting their sights on Everest, they're not just climbing mountains; they're shattering stereotypes. Lidia Huayllas, the group's elder stateswoman and deputy mayor, is leading by example, inspiring generations of women to pursue their dreams despite the odds. The journey of The Cholita Climbers is not just defined by an impressive list of physical feats, but also by a deep sense of cultural pride.

Skateboarding: Cholitas redefining spaces

In the streets of Cochabamba, the Imilla Skate collective stands out for all the right reasons. Led by Dani Santiváñez, this group of bold young women is rewriting the script of skateboarding. With their vibrant, traditional clothes, they challenge conventional ideas of femininity and athleticism, presenting a much more interesting and empowering alternative.

​The Imilla Skate collective

The Imilla Skate collective has transformed neglected spaces, making them vibrant and exciting again. They’re not just skaters, they’ve reclaimed their right to public spaces and fostered strong community bonds. Their influence even goes beyond the streets of Cochabamba, rippling across the nation. Their message is clear: women belong in skate parks, and their presence is non-negotiable. By taking this stance, they're helping amplify indigenous voices and reshape perceptions of what it means to be a skateboarder.

Self-defense: Cholitas against gender-based violence

Faced with the issue of gender-based violence, Bolivian Cholitas are refusing to stay silent any longer. Lidia Mayta, a woman who was violently attacked by would-be robbers at her front door, has turned to martial arts as a tool for empowerment. Not only of herself but of other women in the community who are tired of being victimized and afraid.

In Bolivia, over 53% of women experience physical or sexual violence. Despite the high prevalence of gender-based violence, prevention services often lack knowledge about disabilities, limiting access to information and care, and leaving women to fend for themselves. Shockingly, only 1% of gender-based violence cases are prosecuted and convicted.

Warmi Power taekwondo studio

In this context, taekwondo studios like Warmi Power offer a sanctuary for women to learn self-defense techniques and reclaim their sense of agency. Beyond physical training, these spaces serve as platforms for solidarity and collective action against gender-based violence. Mayta found this space to learn taekwondo and she’s now one of their main facilitators, dedicated to introducing women to the transformative power of martial arts.

Self-defense techniques

By teaching women with the skills to defend themselves, organizations like Warmi Power are challenging the culture of impunity and fostering a culture of accountability. Their message is clear: violence against women will not be tolerated, and every woman has the right to feel safe in her community.

Bolivian Cholitas are leading a new chapter in their history

The stories of Bolivian Cholitas scaling mountains, mastering skateboards, and learning self-defense are not just individual victories; they’re part of a larger change that will ripple for generations to come. Through their actions, these women are rewriting the script of gender norms and reclaiming their rightful place in society. As they continue to challenge stereotypes, they inspire communities in Bolivia and around the world to rise and take up space. Bolivian Cholitas are shaping history, one challenge at a time.

Empanadas from Colombia

Colombians love their empanadas, and they take their family recipes very seriously. In Colombia, empanada dough is made of instant corn flour known as “masarepa” and fillings tend to be savory. Empanadas are also fried, so the crispy texture is a must. They love using bell pepper, onion, and garlic in their stews, and Colombian empanadas are usually accompanied by “ají,” a tangy, spicy sauce that elevates and sharpens the flavors.

Empanadas from Venezuela

Venezuelan empanadas are similar to Colombian empanadas in that they’re savory and always fried. They’re made with “P.A.N” flour, which is a pre-cooked white corn meal, and sometimes they’re made with the yellow corn meal version of P.A.N flour, which gives the dough more color and flavor. Venezuelan empanada fillings are as varied as you can imagine! From something as simple as mashed potatoes and cheese, to “pabellón criollo” filling, which combines all the ingredients of the national dish. Namely, shredded beef, black beans, rice, and fried sweet plantain for sweet and savory combo.

Empanadas from Argentina

Argentinian empanadas are quite different in shape and flavor, so they’re also very popular. The main difference with other Latin American empanadas is that Argentinian empanadas are not made with corn flour, but rather wheat flavor. This makes the texture of the dough a bit flaky and tender but still crisp on the outside. Corn flour empanadas are heartier in comparison. In Argentina, empanadas can be baked or fried, and the most common fillings are ground beef, cubed beef, egg, and ham and cheese, among others. They’re also served with chimichurri, a delicious herb sauce that adds even more flavor.

Empanadas from Honduras

Empanadas in Honduras are known as “pastelitos” and they’re usually baked rather than fried. The dough is similar to Argentinian empanadas because it’s also made with wheat flour, making the empanadas resemble a pastry. The traditional fillings are meat and beans with cheese, so they’re quite hearty and delicious. Usually, they’re served with the Honduran version of pico de gallo, which is known as “chimol,” and it’s a must with every bite.

Empanadas from Mexico

When people think about Mexican food, tacos or burritos are the first things that may come to mind. However, they also have empanadas, and they’re crazy good! In Mexico, you can find both wheat flour and corn flour empanadas, so there’s a good variety to enjoy. The fillings often include meat, more commonly chorizo, which offers a burst of flavor. However, the simple beans and cheese combination is also very popular, and for good reason.

Empanadas from Puerto Rico

Puerto Ricans don’t joke about their food, let alone their empanadas. Also known as “pastelillos” or “empanadillas,” Puerto Rican empanadas are known for their flaky texture and flavorful fillings, which are usually savory. In Puerto Rico, empanadas are made with pastry dough, so they’re also made with wheat flour. The dough is usually on the thin side, making these empanadas super crispy. The most common filling is ground beef with potatoes, but you can also find chicken and seafood fillings. Also, Puerto Rican empanadas are accompanied by a simple mayo-ketchup dip, which is the cherry on top. They’re a staple food bite at parties!

Empanadas from El Salvador

In El Salvador, empanadas are usually consumed as snacks or desserts because they’re both savory and sweet. Mostly sweet! They’re completely different from the other empanadas we’ve discussed so far because the dough is made of mashed sweet plantains and they’re usually coated with white sugar as well. The filling is usually refried beans, which helps balance out the sweetness. However, you can also find Salvadorian empanadas with milk filling, which is a soft cream made with milk, cornstarch, sugar, and cinnamon.

Empanadas from Peru

In Peru, empanadas are also quite different from the others we’ve explored here. The main difference is the dough, which is very similar to pizza dough. That makes the texture more similar to bread. They’re usually baked and on the thin side. The stars of the Peruvian empanadas are the fillings, though, which are very flavorful. The most typical filling is beef seasoned with ají panca, green olives, and hard-boiled eggs. The chili pepper adds mild spiciness and a nice smoky flavor, which adds complexity to the flavors.

Empanadas from Cuba

Cuban empanadas are not too different from Puerto Rican empanadas because they also use pastry dough. In Cuba, empanadas are flaky, crispy, and thin. As for fillings, they can be sweet or savory. Savory fillings usually involve ground beef and green olives, while sweet fillings combine cream cheese and guava paste. Whether you go for the sweet or the savory, Cuban empanadas offer a burst of flavor and it’s nearly impossible to have just one.

Empanadas from Chile

Last but not least, we have Chilean empanadas, which are made with wheat flour and baked rather than fried. They tend to be sweet and savory, with the traditional filling consisting of ground beef or pork, black olives, and raisins. Sometimes, hard-boiled eggs enter the chat as well. Chilean empanadas are not for everyone because not everyone vibes with raisins, but if you do, this is a flavor combination you should definitely try.

There’s no denying that Latin American empanadas are amazing and the more varieties you try, the more you’ll fall in love with them!