Taquerías en la University
Taquerías en la University: A Celebration of Resilience, Culture, and Community
Taquerías en la University is more than a photographic exploration of taco trucks along University Avenue in Des Moines—it is a celebration of culture, resilience, and the transformative power of food. This project captures the vibrant presence of these mobile taquerías, many of which are operated by undocumented individuals who, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, became lifelines for their communities.
While much of the country shut down in 2020, these taquerías stayed open—not out of luxury, but out of necessity. Excluded from government stimulus programs, these workers continued to show up, on lots that would otherwise be vacant, feeding neighborhoods even as they put themselves at risk. Their stories are often overlooked, and with this project, I wanted to shine a spotlight on the everyday people who too often go unseen.
These taco trucks are more than just food vendors—they are third spaces, places where people from all walks of life gather, connect, and share in the rich culinary traditions of the Latino community. Framed by hand-painted murals and the hum of city traffic, they bring warmth, flavor, and culture to the streets of Des Moines.
This project was made possible by a grant from the Iowa Arts Council, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to document this vital part of our community. Taquerías en la University is a tribute to the strength and beauty of those who keep showing up—for their families, their neighborhoods, and for all of us—one taco at a time.
Thanks again to the Iowa Arts Council for awarding me the art grant, D Guzman for creating the cover for book and animations, Sophie Babcock for style the tacos photos, and all those who have supported this project along the way.
Read more about this project in the articles below
