Visual Artist and Educator
Pamela Araya is a visual artist and educator whose work explores themes of identity, displacement, resilience, colonization, and the immigrant experience. Drawing from her upbringing in Costa Rica and Brooklyn, NY as well as her lived experience as a first-generation immigrant, Araya uses figurative art, mixed media, and personal narratives to weave together stories that highlight both struggle and resilience.
Her current body of work, Avenida Nosara, is on view at the National Women’s Hall of Fame in Seneca Falls, NY (June–November 2025). This exhibition reflects on land, belonging, and Latin American history, while inviting viewers to engage in dialogue around cultural memory, justice, and the legacy of colonization.
In addition to her studio practice, Pamela teaches Foundation Drawing as an adjunct instructor at Finger Lakes Community College, where she encourages students to develop strong technical skills while connecting their artwork to personal and cultural narratives. She has also workes with K–6 students, inspiring creativity through exploratory art centers and hands-on projects.
Her work has been exhibited at the Rochester Contemporary Art Center, the National Women’s Hall of Fame, and other regional and national venues. Through both her teaching and her art, Pamela is committed to fostering creativity, cultural understanding, and the power of storytelling.
Education
2019 - 2021
SUNY Empire State University
She holds a Master of Arts in Educational Technology and Learning Design, where she gained expertise in using innovative tools to create immersive and collaborative learning environments that extend beyond traditional classroom settings. This experience equips her to design and integrate technology-enhanced approaches in art education, fostering engagement, creativity, and meaningful learning experiences for her students.
2016 - 2019
SUNY Empire State University
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Digital Media, where she developed a strong foundation in visual storytelling, multimedia production, and digital design. This background allows her to bring a creative and technical approach to her work, blending digital tools with artistic expression to engage and inspire.
2004 - 2006
