Vreni Michelini Castillo

Vreni Michelini Castillo is a Senior Adjunct Professor in the Critical Ethnic Studies Program at California College of the Arts (CCA). Her interdisciplinary work spans cultural production, curation, dance, and education, rooted in decolonial, queer, and anti-patriarchal frameworks.

Her research and teaching interests include:

• Critical Ethnic and Race Studies
• Decolonial and Indigenous Knowledge
• Ecofeminism and Ritual Practices
• Traditional Mexican Medicine (Red Medicine)
• Interdisciplinary Art and Social Engagement
• Curatorial and Community-Based Practices

Prof. V’s work integrates art, healing, and activism, often through collective and performative modalities. She has curated significant projects such as The Circle: Autonomy Beyond the Nation-State and edited the influential anthology Color Theory, which addresses systemic oppression and ethical aesthetics in art institutions.

She has received numerous awards and grants supporting her creative and community work, including recognition from YBCA, NALAC, Akonadi Foundation, and Creative Citizen Microgrants. Her residencies span global institutions such as Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, Root Division, Zoo Labs, and Denniston Hill.

Prof. V is the director of the Indigo Ensemble, co-founder of the artist collective Aguas Migrantes, and creator of Fluid Mutualism. Her performances have been featured at SXSW, Art Dubai, SFMOMA, and Oakland Pride, among others.