Nayeli Mancilla: WNMU John Stermer Art Scholarship Winner, 2024-25

We (John Stermer Estate/ Stermer Art LLC) would like to congratulate Ms. Nayeli Mancilla for being the academic year 2024-2025 Western New Mexico University (WNMU) John Stermer Art Scholarship winner! 

Artist’s Statement.

As a way to introduce Nayeli and her work, we would like to share with you Ms. Mancilla’s artist’s statement:

“My journey into the arts began at a young age, inspired by the vibrant cultures and landscapes around me. I’ve been lucky to have a family who has always supported my creative endeavors to the fullest.

I came to WNMU to play volleyball and study education, but an ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury led me down a more fulfilling path. I stayed in Silver for the immense public lands, the slower pace of life, and the strong sense of community. The land here heavily inspires my art. 

Over the years, my passion has evolved to include photography, painting, drawing, and graphic design. I’m also pursuing an associate degree in welding, which has added a unique dimension to my artistic expression.

Creating is like spiritual food for me. I’ve always known my strength lies in creativity. Right now, my art somehow always circles back to themes of spirituality and energy, probably because of the challenges I’ve faced growing into the person I am today. Making art has been a way for me to let go of those tough times.

While healing themes have been at the heart of my work, I don’t plan to stick with them forever. As I shed the weight of my past, I’m excited to dive into lighter, more imaginative pieces and let my creativity run wild. My current sense of emerging is showing up vividly in my work, and I’m pretty excited to see where it takes me next.”

You may see more of Nayeli Mancilla on her Instagram page @nayelimancillart.

About the Scholarship.

For students interested in applying for the WNMU John Stermer Art Scholarship, the requirements are as follows:

• 2.5 GPA or higher
• Art major
• Submit art portfolio to the WNMU Expressive Arts Department
• Undergraduate or graduate
• Enrolled either full-time or part-time

The WNMU John Stermer Art Scholarship was started in 1995 in conjunction with the first John Stermer Retrospective held at WNMU’s Francis McCray Art Gallery by proceeds from sales of the show catalog and poster.  The family’s intention was to honor John Stermer’s love of teaching and education.  During his life time, he taught drawing and painting in his community, including a small number of classes at WNMU.

We are pleased to say that the scholarship continues after 30 years.   For more, we invite you to see the WNMU Foundation Online Giving Page (click here).

Congrats!

Again, congratulations Nayeli and best wishes for a great year!  We send Ms. Mancilla our best wishes for an excellent and creative year at Western New Mexico University (Silver City, NM).