Arts & Entertainment
Women Are Claiming Their Space in Mexico City’s Street Art Scene, One Mural at a Time
This story is part of a series of reports on life in Mexico City from Medill School of Journalism students in partnership with WTTW News. Read more about the project.
by Daniela Cantu and Deedee El bego
In Mexico City, known locally as CDMX, street art is more than creative expression. It is identity, empowerment and community.
For decades, street art has been dominated by men, not only in Mexico but around the world. Now, a growing movement of women artists is changing that reality by reclaiming public space and transforming the city’s walls into bold statements of visibility and power.
Melissa Zoldyck, new to the Juntas mural scene, describes her painting process. (Daniela Cantu / Medill School of Journalism)
At the center of this movement is Nia Fase, a trailblazer who has helped create space for women in a traditionally male-dominated scene.
She founded Juntas Hacemos Más, which translates to “Together We Do More,” an annual event where women artists gather to paint, collaborate and support one another.
“We didn’t expect so many people to come when we first started Juntas,” Fase said.
What began as a small gathering has quickly grown into an international phenomenon, drawing artists from across Mexico and beyond. With that growth comes challenges.
“It’s a lot of work, to meet all the girls and everything,” Fase said. “But I hope this goes on for longer than me.”
For Fase, the project is about more than art, it’s about building a lasting community where women can create freely and safely.
Natalia Sustaita poses with her artwork. (Deedee El bego / Medill School of Journalism)
In 2026, artists from around the world are now traveling to participate, including Natalia Sustaita from Avondale in Chicago.
For Sustaita, the trip represents more than just an opportunity to paint because it’s a chance to be part of a movement she has admired for years.
In April, she traveled to Mexico City to join the event, bringing her own style and perspective to the growing international community of women artists.
Sustaita hopes to carry that energy back to Chicago and continue to uplift and connect with other female artists in her own neighborhood.
Edén Bernal contributed reporting in Mexico City.
