Meet Mayra Avina | Social Worker and Watercolor Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mayra Avina and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mayra, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When I started Cempaxochilt Arts, it felt like I was stepping into a new world, one brushstroke at a time. The business began during one of the most difficult periods of my life: the sudden loss of my aunt and grandmother just before the pandemic struck. Creating art became my refuge, a way to process my grief and find peace in an uncertain world.

Painting in watercolor felt almost meditative—each stroke and blend of color reminded me of moments shared with my family and the richness of my heritage. I wanted my art to be a reflection of my identity as a Chicana, Hopi, and Indigenous woman, so each piece became an exploration of my roots. Bright colors and organic forms found their way into my work, echoing the warmth and vibrancy of the culture that shaped me. I named my business *Cempaxochilt Arts* to honor this journey, inspired by the marigold flowers that hold deep significance in Mexican and Indigenous cultures as symbols of remembrance and resilience.

Through Cempaxochilt Arts, I’ve found a way to celebrate my family, my culture, and my own journey toward healing. Sharing these pieces with others has become my way of spreading a bit of joy and connection, hoping that my art can be a small light for others just as it was for me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career in social work has led me to a role where I can make a meaningful impact, both within my team and for the families we serve. As an organizational leadership staff member at a nonprofit, I am the Associate Director of Strategic Initiatives at Focus Points Family Resource Center and I oversee critical services that help families access public benefits, utility assistance, and other essentials. It’s a position that involves balancing big-picture strategy with the day-to-day realities faced by those in need, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

One of the most rewarding parts of my role is coaching and mentoring my team. I believe in a strengths-based approach, both in my management style and in the way we serve families. By focusing on the unique strengths each person brings—whether a staff member or a family we assist—we’re able to build confidence, trust, and resilience. I love seeing my team develop their skills, approach challenges creatively, and find ways to empower others.

Each family’s story is unique, and taking a strengths-based approach allows us to highlight their resilience while providing the support they need to reach their goals. Every time we can make a difference, I feel proud to be part of this work, knowing that together we’re helping to create lasting, positive change.

My journey to where I am today wasn’t straightforward, but it was shaped by the presence of kind and compassionate mentors who taught me the power of showing up for just one person. Watching them make a difference through small acts of care inspired me to do the same.

As the eldest daughter in a Latino family, I grew up with both the weight of responsibility and the warmth of encouragement from my parents, who supported my dreams of pursuing a career in social work. Yet, stepping out on my own was a significant, sometimes difficult, transition. Living independently allowed me to really reflect on who I am, who I want to be, and how I want to impact others.

I discovered a deep desire to serve others with compassion, authenticity, and joy. This journey has shaped how I show up for those around me and has made me deeply grateful for the mentors who guided me here.

Learning to prioritize my mental health and well-being was a journey of its own. Growing up in a community where mental health often carries a stigma, I didn’t initially see the importance of self-care. But during my graduate studies in Social Work, I came to understand that taking care of myself wasn’t just necessary—it was essential if I wanted to support others effectively.

This realization freed me. I began to embrace the idea of setting healthy boundaries and taking time for myself, knowing it would make me stronger and more present for those I serve. It’s been a challenging lesson but one that has truly transformed how I show up for others.

Choosing a career that truly fulfills me has been my anchor, keeping me grounded and motivated through all the challenges. I want others to know how important it is to pursue work that resonates with your values. For me, being a social worker and a watercolor artist are more than just roles—they’re ways I live out empathy, joy, and integrity.

Finding a hobby that brings joy has been just as essential. Creating art supports my mental well-being and brings me a different, yet equally meaningful, sense of fulfillment. Both my career and my art allow me to show up authentically and keep me centered on what truly matters.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
This one is hard and here are my top 5 restaurants; 5 spots to hangout; 5 spots for happy hour; and 5 spots to visit while in Colorado:

Restaurants:
1. La Diabla
2. Bao Brewhouse
3. Mary’s Hamburger Bar and Grill
4. Izakaya Den
5. Xiquita

Visit:
1. Denver Art Museum
2. Ana Marina Studio
3. Twist & Shout Records
4. Plant Magic Cafe
5. Green Lady Gardens

Hangout Spots:
1. Alchemy Rituals
2. Convivio Cafe
3. Casa Brewja
4. Cultura Chocolate
5. Denver Botanic Gardens

Happy Hour Spots:
1. The Dew Drop Inn
2. The Marigold
3. Postino
4. La Bouche
5. Federales Denver

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
To my parents, Marcos and Lucila; my partner, Rickey; and my closest friends, Ashley, David, Doria, Jessica, Natalie, Ry, Ryan, and Vivian: thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support has been everything to me—whether through words of encouragement, sharing my work with others, investing in my pieces, or simply cheering me on as I follow this path. Each of you has kept me inspired and grounded, reminding me why I began Cempaxochilt Arts and motivating me to keep going, one painting at a time. I couldn’t do this without you, and I’m endlessly grateful. A special thank you to Sydney, who was my mentor as I launched my business, and to all the countless organizations that have invited me to sell my artwork at their markets: Convivio Cafe, CRAFt Colorado, Re:Vision, Bonfire Events, and so many more. Thank you for believing in me and my art.

Website: https://sites.google.com/view/cempaxochiltartsllc/

Instagram: @cempaxochiltarts

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayra-avina-social-worker-and-mentor/