Mini Muralists Bios

Annaka Penner-Smith

I am a 24-year-old artist, author, poet, novelist, singer, and songwriter. I am from El Centro, and I enjoy using my art to tell a story, to create dialogue, and generate discussions! I hope to inspire others to think creatively and create fearlessly

Elizabeth M Ibarra

Award-winning fine artist, artisan crystal jewelry designer, singer-song writer and honored Distinguished Artist of Calexico, Elizabeth M. Ibarra creates painted works on canvas, furniture, clothing and murals. Her artwork has been sold and featured in gallery shows in both the USA and in Mexico. Elizabeth is the youngest of five siblings, originally from Massachusetts; the place where her aspirations to become an artist began. Her love of art was supported by her parents as home- school student; they signed her up for classes with professional artists at an early age. Elizabeth attended the prestigious boarding school for the arts; Interlochen Arts Academy as a high school freshman where she learned the importance of craftsmanship. She has lived in several places in the U.S. where the arts are an integral part of the culture including; Nantucket Island, MA, Charleston, SC, Asheville, NC and the Imperial Valley, CA. Elizabeth has also traveled in Europe, lived in Greece and cities in Mexico including; San Miguel de Allende, Mexico City and Mexicali. Ancient myths, folklore, music, artifacts, traditional crafts and vibrant cultural references deeply influence her artwork. She currently works as a professional art instructor, teaching both children and adults and sells her artisan crystal jewelry; Lizzy’s Mystic Crystals. Elizabeth resides in El Centro, CA with her beloved singer-songwriter/famed John Lennon Impersonator/programmer husband and their darling son (an aspiring child artist).

Ivy Desiderio

Hello! My name is Ivy, born and raised here in the valley. I am heavily educated in a surplus of art medias and carry art education around me. Aspiring to one day teach, I have dabbled in my fair share of commissioned work for the last 10 years.. I am only 22! I am especially known for designing custom graduation caps. Having a consistent following base of supporters on my Instagram @ivysartpg. Always creating pieces that celebrate important milestones in people’s lives. The celebration of life in passings of loved ones, and even paintings celebrating the birth of a young one. Always painting and selling and painting and selling and then painting some more. I would not be anywhere without the Lord. He blessed me with the gifts and talents to create such beautiful works. Fearfully and wonderfully made in the eyes of the Lord, creating for my creator. (Psalm 139:14) My faith is central to who I am, and it continues to inspire both my art and the way I connect with others. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my work at the fair to be able to showcase what good the Lord is doing and to be part of such a supportive community.

I have been painting for over 10 years. I am established on Instagram and the greatest form of news, word of mouth.

Jacqueline Pleitez

Raised in Calexico, Jacqueline Pleitez graduated from UC Riverside with a Bachelors in Fine Arts and continued to pursue her education at the Art Institute of California North Hollywood. In Los Angeles she worked alongside LAUSD and the city supporting students from all ages and programming community engagement. She is currently teaching Art at Southwest High School. She enjoys teaching Art specially drawing and painting and wants her students to experience art and understand the impact it has on our lives. One of her main goals is to promote art not only in our school but also in our community. Pleitez is also excited to support her students in pursuing art related careers and provide them with the tools and knowledge they need to continue their education and future profession.

Kimberly Rodriguez

Hello! My name is Kimberly Rodriguez, I am a 19-year-old artist raised in El Centro, and I’ve been creating art since childhood! My main art style consists of fantasy-like themes with vibrant colors included, but I am also experienced in realism painting and other styles of art. As of right now, I am a college student at IVC, working towards my biology degree. I am not necessarily studying for an art-related career, but I still keep practicing my art and promote myself as an artist in the valley because art is something I know will always be a huge part of who I am. As of right now, I’ve done art commissions for people, and I’ve done paintings for events in the past as well! I work with both oil and acrylic paint, but my main medium has always been acrylic and is the medium I use for commissions as well. If you ever wanna check out some of my work, search @ArtsyKRL on Instagram!

Miriam Villareal-Marcuson

I was born and raised in Central Mexico, where my early experiences helped shape a deep appreciation for art, culture, and creative expression. Since 1997, I have resided in the Imperial Valley, which has become my second home and a place that continues to influence both my personal life and artistic practice.

I pursued my formal art education at Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles, where I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts with an emphasis in Painting. My academic training provided a strong foundation in visual arts, critical thinking, and creative exploration. Following my undergraduate studies, I earned my Teaching Credential in Art, allowing me to merge my passion for artistic practice with art education.

Since 2015, I have been teaching art at Wilson Junior High School. In the classroom, I strive to foster a supportive and inspiring environment where students are encouraged to explore their creativity, develop their technical skills, and express themselves with confidence. Sharing my passion for art with young artists is deeply rewarding, and I am committed to helping students discover the value of artistic expression both in and beyond the classroom.

I actively look forward to participating in art events throughout the county and strongly encourage my students to engage with the local art community as well. I believe that exposure to public art, exhibitions, and community events plays an important role in artistic growth and cultural awareness.

I am excited to participate in this event and look forward to painting, connecting with fellow artists, and engaging with the public in a meaningful and creative way.

Paulina Acosta

In 2023, she participated as an assistant artist in the mural restoration project at Chicano Park in San Diego. There, she had the opportunity to share and learn from numerous renowned muralists, reaffirming her commitment to community art and cultural preservation.

Although her background is in early childhood development in Mexico, art has always been one of her greatest passions. Now, as a new resident of the Imperial Valley, she wants to integrate into and actively contribute to the local art community. For her, exhibiting at the Imperial Valley Fairgrounds represents an opportunity to share her roots, celebrate cultural identity, and forge connections through art.