Raices

Raíces is a compelling photographic exhibition by Nicaraguan-born visual artist Victor Contreras, presented in two volumes. This body of work explores the depth, vibrancy, and cultural plurality of Queer Latinx identities across the United States. Through bold, intimate portraiture, Raíces becomes a visual archive of heritage—featuring individuals with roots in Nicaragua, Brazil, Colombia, Panama, Mexico, the United States, El Salvador, Venezuela, and Peru.


Created in collaboration with Somos LOUD, an initiative of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), Raíces extends beyond art. It serves as part of a broader effort to confront HIV disparities in underserved communities while amplifying essential dialogues within the Latinx experience.


The first volume premiered on November 18, 2021, aligning with National Latinx Heritage Month, a period dedicated to honoring the influence, resilience, and creative impact of Latinx communities throughout the country.

Artistic portrait of a shirtless person with long dark wavy hair and a mustache against a brown background.
A portrait showcasing wet curly dark hair, makeup, and a sheer floral lace top against a neutral background.
Portrait against brown background of person with curly dark hair and round glasses wearing brown polo shirt.
Portrait of person wearing beige button-up shirt against tan background with deep contrast and dramatic lighting.
Portrait against brown background of person with long dark hair wearing brown shirt and pendant necklace.
Portrait of person with long dark wavy hair wearing peachy pink sweatshirt against brown background.
Portrait of a bald person wearing a tank top and crystal necklace against a beige background.

Raíces Vol. 2 premiered on October 14, 2022, at Marikoteca, a cultural event organized by Somos LOUD in Houston, Texas. This second volume expanded the project’s exploration of Queer Latinx identity, offering new portraits and narratives that further deepen the emotional and cultural impact of Raíces.

Portrait of a confident woman wearing a brown top and gold jewelry against a dark background.
Portrait series showing person in orange sweater with metallic chain necklace against dark background.
A creative photo composition shows seven profile views of a bearded face with dark hair against a deep brown background.
Artistic portrait sequence showing person in burnt orange hoodie against moody dark backdrop.
A series of cropped photos showing a person in a beige t-shirt against a dark background.
Portrait series showing changing facial expressions in a burgundy shirt against dark background.
Studio portrait series featuring warm lighting and red-dyed hair with a corduroy button-up shirt.
Sequential photos of a shirtless person with a beard and necklace against dark backdrop.
Artistic shirtless portrait series against dark brown studio background.

Visual Moments from Raíces

Art gallery exhibition displays multiple framed photographs on black tripods along a polished wooden floor in a white-walled space.

Raíces Vol. 2 was among the works featured at Through Their Eyes Grow Thorns, The T.R.U.T.H. Project’s 4th Annual Art Exhibition on June 21, 2024.

Gallery exhibition showing portraits mounted on easels in an industrial space with visitors.

Raíces Vol. 2 was exhibited at the NRG Arena in Houston on December 1, 2023 during World AIDS Day Janet Jackson's concert.

Photography exhibit displaying large portraits on stands in a minimalist gallery space.

Raíces Vol. 2 made its debut at the Marikoteca event organized by Somos Loud on October 14, 2022, in Houston, Texas.

Person sits alone in front of wall display of portrait photographs under a brick archway lit by glass block windows.

Raíces Vol. 1 was exhibited in Houston, TX on November 18, 2021.