KIPP Iluminar art teacher Mr. Montaño (center) and his MOKA students Angelique, Elena, Tiaren, and Emily.
For KIPP Iluminar Academy art teacher Mr. Montaño, art education is far more than a creative outlet — it’s a vital tool for communication, emotional expression, and cultural preservation.
“I believe art education is important because it’s one of our first forms of communication,” he shared. “It helps us express how we’re feeling. It helps with mental health. It’s one of the best ways to record our history and express the kind of person we want to be.”
This year, five of his 4th-grade students—Angelique, Emily, Elena, Tiaren, and Camila—are preparing to debut their artwork at the 19th Annual Museum of KIPP Art (MOKA), each telling deeply personal stories that reflect the theme of “Connections.”
Angelique A. explored the beauty and fragility of life in her puzzle flower piece. “My artwork shows a flower glowing and fading, like how life changes,” she explained. “My favorite part was showing the flower's story from beginning to end. I hope people think about how life changes.”
Emily M. used rich symbolism to reflect on cultural identity and migration. “My artwork represents people who had to go far away from their homes, looking for a better life and leaving their families behind,” she said. With roots signifying connection and strawberries representing the sweet love for one’s culture, Emily’s piece honors her Guatemalan and Mexican heritage. “I hope people feel happiness, identity, and pride in their cultures.”
Elena B. used her painting to make a statement about the misrepresentation of Mexican culture. “One side is how my culture is viewed in the United States, and the other side is how it really is,” she said. Adding a personal twist, Elena included her cat in the scene. “This drawing represents the connection to both worlds and how they shaped who I am.”
Tiaren D. took inspiration from the animated show Steven Universe to explore themes of emotional growth and transformation. “My artwork is about losing a connection but also opening a new one,” she said. “My favorite part was being able to chat with my art teacher and friends while creating it.” She hopes her piece helps viewers connect more deeply with their own emotions.
Camila O. created a tribute to the deep bond she shares with her siblings. “My art is about the strong bond and connection I have with my sisters,” she said. “It is meant to represent the love we have for one another. The tree is meant to symbolize our parents who have been supportive and have protected us our whole lives.”
Mr. Montaño beamed with pride as he reflected on his students’ work: “Any time we get to do an art project with our students, I think it has a lot of value. MOKA gives them the opportunity to reflect, share, and connect with themselves and their community.”
Join us at this year’s MOKA showcase and auction on Friday, May 30, at BMO Stadium to experience these powerful stories and celebrate the brilliance of young artists across KIPP SoCal.