leire urbeltz - Leire Urbeltz

Hi, I am Leire Urbeltz

Illustrator, mural artist, and academic :)

Hi there! I’m Leire Urbeltz, a doctoral candidate at the Center for Basque Studies at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR). I’m excited to explore community engagement through the vibrant world of contemporary Basque-American mural paintings. I have a master’s degree in research and creation in art and a fine arts degree from the University of the Basque Country.

My journey has taken me through some fantastic experiences, like studying Illustration and Visual Communication at the Eina School (linked to the Autonomous University of Barcelona) and earning a master’s in children’s picture books at the Icon I School in Matadero, Madrid. I’ve been lucky enough to participate in several international art residencies, including the Seoul Museum of Art-Nanji in South Korea, CC El Paso del Norte in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, the Manga Art Studio in Beijing, China, and the Bilbao Arte Foundation back in the Basque Country.

I was thrilled to win first prize at the Encuentros contest in Navarra in 2015. The Government of Navarra also supported me in 2016 and 2023. In 2017, I was honored to receive a prestigious Leonardo grant from the BBVA Foundation.

For seven years, I’ve been part of the Art Education Department at the Contemporary Art Center of Huarte, which has been such a rewarding experience. I have also taught Art Education as an associate professor at the Public University of Navarra, which has allowed me to share my love for art with students. I’ve participated in mural festivals in Nevada (USA) and Navarra, and I enjoy working as an illustrator for children’s books and communication campaigns. I would love to exchange ideas and collaborate. If you're interested, please send an email to l.urbeltz@gmail.com