Welcome Endria & Kimmi!
The Brea Gallery is thrilled to welcome two new team members, Endria and Kimmi!
Meet Endria
Hello everyone! My name is Endria Leyva Suarez, I’m the new Community Service Coordinator at the Brea Gallery, and I am so thrilled to join this amazing team! I’m originally from Morelia Michoacan, Mexico, and I moved to Southern California when I was eight years old. My heritage and background have deeply influenced both my personal and professional life in the arts. My culture is a huge part of who I am and I strive to represent that in everything that I do.
My journey in the arts began at Mt. San Antonio Community College where I fell in love with art history during my first class, “Art and Architecture of Mesoamerica.” This passion led me to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Art History with a minor in Chicanx/Latinx Studies from the University of California, Irvine (UCI) in 2021. I continued my studies at UCI and received my Master’s in Art History in 2023, focusing on Mexican and Mexican American art.
Judith Hernandez, Todavía Sueño De Mariposas, 2015, Pastel On Paper
One of my favorite artists is Judith Hernandez, a trailblazer in the Chicanx Movement of the 1970s. Her pastel works on paper evoke a profound sense of pride in my culture, my identity as a Mexican American, and as a woman. One piece that particularly resonates with me is Todavía Sueño De Mariposas ( I Still Dream Of Butterflies).
I’ve long admired the exhibitions at the Brea Gallery and feel incredibly fortunate to now be a part of this unique space that celebrates contemporary art and artists. I’m eager to bring my creativity to the team and collaborate to create an environment where self-expression, creativity, and conversations can thrive.
Outside of the gallery, I like to go to concerts with my husband, spend time with friends and family, and take a yoga class here and there. I’m also a big fan of comedies–right now, I’m very excited for the new season of Abbott Elementary, it’s such a fun wholesome show to relax to! So if you see me around the gallery tell me about your favorite T.V. shows or your favorite artist or just say hi!
I’m looking forward to meeting you all and contributing to the vibrant community here at the Brea Gallery!
Meet Kimmi
Hello, art lovers! I’m Kimmi Macias, the new Senior Lead Gallery Assistant here at Brea Gallery, and I’m so excited to introduce myself. It’s a privilege to join a space as vibrant and community-driven as this one, and I can’t wait to bring my love for art and connection to everything I do here.
I was born in California and raised in Spokane Valley, Washington, where creativity became my world from a young age. Art was my safe space and my favorite form of self-expression. That passion stayed with me through the years, leading me to transfer from Fullerton Community College to California State University, Fullerton, where I recently earned my BFA in Entertainment Art and Animation. While I’ve always loved art, it wasn’t until my senior year of high school that I began to see it as a career path that would allow me to connect deeply with people, build community, and share meaningful stories.
Hannah Tjia, Wolf Song, 2023, Oil On Wood
For me, art is about so much more than technique; it’s about creating spaces where everyone can feel seen. I’m driven by a love for representation and being able to connect with people through art. I want to push creative boundaries and dive into the endless possibilities of different artistic mediums. Art can help build empathy and understanding, and I’m thrilled to be part of a gallery that champions this approach.
Working at Brea Gallery has been a dream because it embodies so many of my own values. It’s a place that encourages growth, hands-on work, and learning from incredible artists. I’ve admired how Brea Gallery is dedicated to creating a welcoming, community-centered environment, and it’s an honor to contribute to that mission. Here, I have the chance to build meaningful relationships with guests and artists, explore new sides of the art world, and share my own creative voice.
Glen Martin Taylor, The Heart I’m Holding, 2022, Vintage plate, solder, wire, cookie cutter
In my own art, I’m focused on creating stories and characters that resonate and help others feel understood. My vision includes making safe spaces for authentic, diverse representation—art that reflects a wide range of experiences. I hope to inspire and be inspired, both by the talented artists I work with and by the visitors who bring fresh perspectives.
When I’m not at the gallery, you’ll likely find me out enjoying live music (please tell me about your favorite music when you stop in to visit!), catching the latest film at the theater (Regal Unlimited… I adore you), drawing at a local coffee shop, or relaxing in my hammock with a good book. I’m also constantly creating characters and stories in my free time, and I love exploring new foods and finding unique spots around town. Thank you for welcoming me into the Brea Gallery family! I’m beyond excited for the journey ahead and to help make art more accessible, engaging, and representative for everyone. I look forward to connecting with each of you and sharing in the inspiration that this incredible space has to offer.
Michael Maiellano, The Dreamer, 2021, Color Pencil On Paper
Yoshitomo Nara, 1.2.3.4. Change the History, 2007, Acrylic On Wood
The Brea Gallery is so grateful to have have these dynamic individuals to help assist, create, and serve our community!
Stop by and say “hello!” soon.
