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Inside the Lens of Photographer Estevan Oriol

  • National Museum of Mexican Art 1852 West 19th Street Chicago, IL, 60608 United States (map)

The art and impact of an international visual storyteller

About the Event

World-renowned photographer, director, and urban lifestyle entrepreneur Estevan Oriol has built a career capturing both the gritty and the glamorous sides of Los Angeles. From intimate portraits of the rich and famous to powerful images of Latino, urban, gang, and tattoo cultures, Oriol’s lens offers an unflinching and deeply human look at life in L.A.

He began his creative journey as a tour manager for the legendary rap groups Cypress Hill and House of Pain, where he started documenting life on the road, unknowingly launching what would become a groundbreaking career in photography. Since then, his portfolio has grown to include iconic portraits of Al Pacino, Snoop Dogg, Kim Kardashian, Adrien Brody, Floyd Mayweather, and many more.

Join us for a captivating conversation with Estevan Oriol as he reflects on his prolific body of work, shares behind-the-scenes stories, and discusses his lasting impact on visual culture and the Chicano community at large.

Moderated by Deanna Ledezma, PhD and Josh T. Franco, PhD


Tickets can be purchased at the Chicago Humanities

General Public $28

Chicago Humanities Members $22

Students & Teachers $20


Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month

As part of our ongoing commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and foregrounding vital cultural narratives, join us as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month through a series of Latino-centric programs on September 21 at the National Museum of Mexican Art, one of the nation’s foremost institutions dedicated to preserving and celebrating Mexican and Latino heritage.

This Fall Festival Day seeks to create a space where history, community, and creativity intersect, exploring the richness and complexity of Latino identity, offering a multifaceted examination of artistic expression that bridges historical legacy with contemporary experience. By centering the work of artists, intellectuals, and cultural stewards whose contributions illuminate the lived experiences and enduring resilience of Latino communities, the series highlights the profound role of the humanities in shaping collective understanding.

Join Chicago Humanities, the National Museum of Mexican Art, and Little Village Chicago landmark Apollo's 2000 Theatre for a day of events, conversations, and storytelling exploring Latino creativity and culture — from street photography and cutting-edge food to pop culture.

Pilsen / Little Village Day is generously supported in part by ITW, the Terra Foundation for American Art, and Wintrust.