In a cultural and political climate that both exploits the basest human fear of the “other” and seems bent on the delineation of difference and separation, Casa Otro is intended as an oasis for the creative contemplation of those things that connect rather than divide. It is a space curated for the celebration of the spirit of our collective us-ness that supersedes and transgresses political, religious, socioeconomic or gender biases. It approaches this intention humbly, with an understanding that all people have been complicit to some extent and at some time to the divisive climate of othering.

Through its mixed-use status as an historically significant private home, guest house and artist residency Casa Otro will provide a creative nexus where the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of each of its guests, residents and exhibited artists are explored, articulated and celebrated. By creating a space where sharing, celebrating and critiquing our unique perspectives is safe, we create empathy and compassion—not for the poor, lost “other,” but for us.

Nos-otros. Us-others.