Local artist featured in exhibit at Milan-Cortina Paralympic Games

Aurora resident Zinyra "Z" Ross's artwork is currently on view in Italy as part of ArtPara, an international exhibition part of the Cultural Olympiad connected to the Milano-Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Z and her mom Simyra just returned from the exhibit's opening ceremony, celebrating this huge milestone.

"This was my first time traveling outside of the United States," said Z. "It was an amazing experience getting to see my art on display for people all across the world to enjoy."

Launched by Korean artist Kim Geun Tae in 2015, ArtPara showcases works by artists with physical and intellectual disabilities from around the world.

Previous exhibitions include at the United Nations, Berlin Wall, and several Paralympic Games. Z is one of 142 artists with disabilities from 30 countries around the world with work on view at this year's event.

"Z was the only Black young woman in attendance, surrounded by a community of inclusion and diversity. I am so proud of my daughter for being brave, fearless, and focused,“ Simyra Ross said. ”She's forging her own path and pushing beyond the expectations of her disability to achieve moments like this– becoming an internationally recognized artist."

The exhibition runs through March 18 at Ex Fornace Gola exhibition space in Milan. Plans are underway for the next exhibition at the LA 2028 Summer Olympics.