FROM:
Dana Willi and Joe Verkennes
(734) 384-4207
jverkennes@monroeccc.edu
February 5, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONROE, Mich. – Monroe County Community College will host a presentation, workshop/demo and month-long public display by Phoenix-based artist Cora J. Quiroz as part of its Visiting Artist Series.
The workshop/demo will take place on Thursday, Feb. 19, from 1:30–4:30 p.m. in Founders Hall, Room F-117 on MCCC’s Main Campus, 1555 S. Raisinville Rd., Monroe. The presentation will follow that evening from 6:30–8:30 p.m. in the La-Z-Boy Center Atrium.
Quiroz’s work will be on public display from Feb. 19 to March 19 in MCCC Library, which is located on the first floor of the Campbell Academic Center on the Main Campus.
The workshop, presentation and display are all free and open to the public.
The MCCC Library is open from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. on Friday. It is closed on Saturday and Sunday. (Please note: The Library will be closed for spring break from Monday, March 2 through Sunday, March 8.)
Quiroz is a Phoenix-based artist whose work explores themes of feminism, culture and identity through Western portrait conventions and found objects. She blends traditional oil painting with elements of pinstriping and airbrushing to create narrative-driven works.
Her art celebrates women who break traditional roles, as well as those who carry both masculine and feminine qualities in their appearance, hobbies or work.
She grew up in Michigan, where car culture and factory life were central to her family’s story. Her family migrated to the state to work in the auto industry, and their grit left a lasting impression. Raised as a Jehovah’s Witness, Quiroz grew up in a world where art outside of religious uses was frowned upon. After being disfellowshipped, she immersed herself in creative exploration and became dedicated to her craft.
In addition to her studio practice, Cora worked as a muralist and mural assistant before moving to Phoenix. She is currently working as an art handler and fabricator, a role that has given her a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship and the technical aspects of working with art. Through her paintings and exploration of welding, airbrush and pinstripe, her art has become a reflection of her journey and a tribute to women who forge their paths.
Each year, Monroe County Community College and The Foundation at MCCC host a Visiting Artist Series, a component of the college’s Campus/Community Events Season. Season sponsors of cultural events at MCCC include La-Z-Boy and Consumers Energy.