About me
Leonina Arismendi is a Queer, Uruguayan-born multidisciplinary artist, activist, and award-winning writer whose work interweaves art, food justice, environmentalism, and social change. In 2015, Leonina founded Art Mart, the first LGBTQ+ safe space in Fredericksburg, VA, creating a vital hub for BIPOC artists and the local queer community. Through this initiative, they curated over 40 exhibitions and events before closing the space in 2017 due to rising safety concerns.
A tireless advocate for LGBTQIA2S+ rights, Leonina earned the title of MX Trans Latinx 2020 for their leadership and visibility and was honored with the 2024 Committed Artist Award by Trans Latinx DMV for their dedication to uplifting trans and nonbinary voices. Their advocacy extends to immigration and environmental justice, having founded Virginia's first statewide immigrant bail fund and supporting Ward 4 communities through teaching gardens and mutual aid initiatives.
Leonina’s art and activism converge in massive public murals, digital campaigns, and workshops that amplify underrepresented stories and spark dialogue on critical issues. Whether through their award-winning writing or bold public art, Leonina continues to challenge systemic inequities and foster spaces for healing, empowerment, and transformation.
