ALMA CIELO
Alma Cielo is a multi-disciplinary artist and community educator whose work is deeply rooted in the transformative power of clay and the resilience of the human spirit. A graduate of Yale University in Anthropology with heritage studies in the Philippines, her artistic practice is inspired by the element of fire and the profound significance of what survives through the ashes.
As a fire survivor and firebird, she believes that the arts are an essential tool for healing and building community. Based at Zorthian Ranch in Altadena, she leads workshops that invite participants to piece together broken shards and create tiles with fresh clay, holding history and processing emotions through the communal act of creation.
ZORTHIAN RANCH
At Zorthian Ranch, we find a sanctuary of creative resilience. This historic arts ranch in Altadena provides the quiet space and natural light essential for our healing process. Supported by the Mellon Foundation, we continue to build our community monument while processing our collective history and stories through the transformative power of clay.