May 27, 2025
By: Pat Trevino
Cuero’s own Sylvia Orozco, a distinguished artist and cultural advocate, will be recognized for her contributions to the arts and community at a special celebration in Austin on May 27. The event, held at Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live)—a renowned music venue that hosts the legendary Austin City Limits television series, currently airing its 50th Anniversary broadcast season and serving Downtown Austin.
As part of the celebration, Orozco will be honored with the Meredith Powell Award for Community Culture, an annual recognition given by the Downtown Austin Alliance to individuals who champion authentic and inclusive arts, culture, and sense of place in downtown Austin. Named after Meredith Powell, a visionary advocate for the arts, the award highlights the contributions of those who elevate community voices and strengthen the city’s cultural identity. Powell herself has played a key role in integrating art into urban spaces, fostering creativity, and making Austin a dynamic hub for artistic expression.
Growing up in Cuero, Texas, Orozco developed an early passion for art and creativity. She graduated from Cuero High School (CHS) before continuing her studies at The University of Texas at Austin, where she pursued painting, art history, and photography. Her artistic journey was shaped by her upbringing in Cuero, where she showed remarkable talent and perseverance in overcoming financial hardships to pursue her dreams.
Orozco’s dedication to Latino art led her to co-found Mexic-Arte Museum, which has since become a cornerstone institution in Austin. As Executive Director, she has played a pivotal role in showcasing Mexican, Mexican American, and Latino artists, helping to preserve and promote cultural heritage through exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach. Her leadership has elevated the visibility of Latino artists, making their work an essential part of Austin’s thriving art scene.
Cuero residents can take pride in knowing that one of their own is making waves in the art world. Her recognition at ACL Live highlights her dedication and the meaningful influence of the community that shaped her path