MAC Artist in Residence
The artist residency was created with the intent of supporting aspiring or professional artists who are working to further establish their careers.
Since the establishment of the Firehouse Gallery in 2002, five artists have used the residency as an important stepping stone in their professional and artistic careers.
In July, 2024, a new incumbent resident was chosen to take her next steps career steps using the program as a base.
Current Artist in Residence
Maritza Quintuna
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BIOGRAPHY
My name is Maritza Quintuna, a passionate Latinx creative strategist on a mission to advocate for social change, with a distinct emphasis on amplifying voices and driving impactful initiatives through compelling storytelling strategies.
Raised between two cultures, Ecuador and the United States, I bring a unique perspective on cultural interactions and a deep belief in embracing who we are, regardless of the cultural boxes society might place us in. Growing up in a family where advocating for the community was a core value, I learned early on the importance of using one’s voice to create change. This commitment to community empowerment and inclusivity has become the foundation of my creative work.
From an early age, I was drawn to the power of storytelling, particularly in addressing the challenges faced by our communities such as agriculture, access to education, women and children’s rights. What began with arts and crafts evolved through school STEM projects, which eventually led me to pursue a career that merges graphic design and fine arts. By blending graphic design principles with mixed media, I push creative boundaries to craft unique storytelling experiences.
This passion for social change has led me to work with nonprofits and mission-driven organizations across industries like education, arts, agriculture, and social sectors. These experiences have given me a grounded, real-world perspective that allows me to anticipate and meet the unique needs of every project. Whether in branding, web design, marketing, event promotion, or creative photography, I develop creative strategies that are authentic and inclusive.
I’ve seen firsthand how open communication and cultural appreciation can drive impactful change. It’s this belief in design’s power to create positive transformation that shapes my approach to every project.
GOAL STATEMENT
As I embark on the next chapter of my creative journey as the artist in residence for the Milford Arts Council, my goals are:
- To build a creative agency that produces exceptional design work while serving as a platform for social empowerment and cultural appreciation. I envision an agency that amplifies marginalized voices, champions social causes, and promotes cultural understanding through design.
- To develop projects rooted in empathy and inclusion, addressing the lack of empathy I’ve witnessed in the creative industry. I aspire to create a space where all artists, regardless of skill level, feel supported, heard, and valued.
- To connect with fellow artists, activists, and community leaders, building a network that fosters creative growth and collaboration, while supporting local artists in their journey to thrive.
At the heart of my work is a commitment to design that challenges assumptions, confronts biases, and celebrates the richness of human experience. I aim to create inclusive, impactful designs that foster opportunities for growth and empowerment, paving the way for future generations to break barriers and embrace their authentic selves.
RECENT PROJECT AND ACTIVITIES
“Embrace” Pop Up exhibit
Coming in August 2025, personal project.
Large and Small
A branding workshop.
Panelist for AIGA Connecticut, representing branding for Small businesses and nonprofit.
Private Art Consultations
Collaborate with local artists to develop strategies that increase their visibility and help them gain acceptance in galleries. December 2024 to present.
Art Teacher
Volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club, October 2024 to present
- Fall 2024: Clay modeling
- Spring 2025: Photography Through Creative Frames
Scad Panel
Alumni participant. Learned about career opportunities with Adobe Executive Recruiters.
FRESH / “Embrace”
Submitted “Modern tech in an old fashion world – Cuenca, Ecuador” Photojournalism, December, 2024.
MAC / Member Show Exhibit
- Submitted “Living in a busy world within your own world” Mixed media on canvas. November, 2024 to January, 2025
- Curator
- MAC Member Show Exhibit, November, 2024 to January, 2025
- MAC Figure in Place Exhibit, February 2025
Member
MAC Artist-2-Artist Group, July, 2024 to present