La Nube STEAM Discovery Center, in partnership with Beautiful Minds MALI, proudly unveils “Waves of Joy”—a vibrant, community-created art piece that celebrates diversity, inclusion, and the limitless power of imagination. Made possible in part by the generous support of the Lynch and Schwartz families, “Waves of Joy” brings together individuals of all abilities to create a one-of-a-kind underwater dreamscape for El Paso.

Waves of Joy, 2025

Resin, Geode Quartz Crystals, Clay, and Holographic Film sheets on wood

Crafted from resin, geode quartz crystals, clay, and holographic film on wood, the installation reflects an imaginative underwater dreamscape, where creativity flows freely and every voice contributes to the vibrant whole. Titled “Oleadas de Euforia” in Spanish, the piece stands as a tribute to the joy and beauty that emerge when everyone is empowered to create and be seen. This masterpiece stands as a tribute to the vibrant chorus of color and joy that blooms when everyone is allowed to paint their truth.

“This isn’t just a piece of art; it’s a statement,” said Magda S. Galloza, CEO and Creative Director of Beautiful Minds MALI. “It speaks to what’s possible when we build safe, inclusive spaces where creativity can thrive. It’s a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when everyone is given a chance, and how the brilliance and boundless potential of diverse abilities can shine when united.”

La Nube and Beautiful Minds MALI brought together over 40 participants from across El Paso to imagine, sculpt, and bring this vision to life. Through guided sessions rooted in accessibility and belonging, individuals explored hands-on creativity in a way that fostered both self-expression and collaboration.

Paola Castro
Montserrat Ramos
Dave Matthew Mercado
Alisson Valencia
Alexa Ramirez
Athena L. Human
James Whitman
Cormac Byrd
Hailey Mastriani
Santiago Lopez Maldonado
Theo Cordova
James W. Grow IV
Christina Villa
David Ceniceros
Alan Diaz
Nicole A. Barnard
Alondra Campos
Victoria Trejo
Christian Trejo
Isabella Trejo
Isaac Enriquez
Oswaldo Enriquez
Jordan Olivas
Donovan Diaz
Julian Macias
Heather Cook
Lina Cosgrove
Armando “AJ” Sandoval
Kivana Herrera
Mia Olvera
Rebeca Fernandez
TJ Mitchel
Matthew D. Sandoval
Sophia Navarrete
Efrain Navarrete
Lisa Marenco

“Today, at La Nube, we unveil more than just a beautiful piece of art, we reveal a powerful symbol of what’s possible when imagination and inclusion come together,” said Karla Salazar, Senior VP of La Nube. “This artwork is a testament to the strength of creating environments where every individual, regardless of ability, is seen, valued, and empowered.”

This marks the final installation from six local artists and artist groups chosen to celebrate local talent and highlight the importance of the “A” in STEAM. Visitors can view the artwork on the fourth floor of La Nube, inside the “Flow” exhibit zone.

To download photos of the artwork and the unveiling, click here.

Beautiful Minds MALI is a nonprofit organization that serves individuals of all abilities in the areas of art, technology, and science, with a special focus on individuals with different abilities and their families. Beautiful Minds MALI is a place where individuals of all abilities can shine, explore their gifts, and feel truly seen. It is a place where being yourself is celebrated! Waves of Joy is a testament to their mission to create opportunities where every person is valued, included, and able to share their unique perspective.

La Nube is a unique hybrid institution that merges the educational aspects of a science center with the playful experiences of a children’s museum. La Nube’s mission is to ignite imagination and inspire guests to discover, create, and innovate through STEAM-based exhibits. As El Paso’s premier destination for transformative learning, La Nube champions creativity, inclusion, and biculturalism, providing welcoming learning environments for children and families from all backgrounds.