Stalina Villarreal

Professor whose innovative work influences the realms of translation, creative writing, poetry, and nonfiction, Dr. Stalina Villarreal is an Assistant Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Houston-Downtown. Her unique bilingual perspective as a 1.5-generation Mexican and Xicanx deeply informs her creative endeavors, allowing her to traverse and blend multiple mediums and cultures seamlessly. Dr. Villarreal's literary contributions are diverse and impactful, with her poetry and nonfiction appearing in esteemed publications such as the Rio Grande Review and Texas Review. Her expertise in translation has brought Spanish poetry to a broader audience, showcasing her dedication to cultural exchange and literary diversity. Her work in translation not only bridges linguistic gaps but also enriches the cultural tapestry of contemporary literature. Her accolades include the prestigious Inprint Donald Barthelme Prize in Poetry, a testament to her skill and creativity in the poetic arts. Additionally, her visual poetry has been recognized and featured in the Antena@Blaffer exhibit at the University of Houston's Blaffer Art Museum, highlighting her ability to merge visual and textual elements in innovative ways. Currently, Dr. Villarreal is engaged in several exciting projects, including the creation of ekphrastic elegies inspired by her interpretive drawings. These works explore the intersection of visual art and poetry, offering a unique perspective on the themes of memory and loss. She is also working on a memoir inspired by her nature photography, which promises to be a reflective and visually rich exploration of her personal and cultural narratives. Dr. Villarreal's work continues to push the boundaries of creative writing and translation, making significant contributions to the fields of literature and art. Her commitment to exploring and expressing the complexities of identity and culture through her work makes her a vital voice in contemporary creative writing and translation studies.