A proud Las Vegas native, cultural anthropologist Brian “Paco” Alvarez happened into a career in the cultural arts after discovering that architecture, his chosen field of study, wasn’t offered locally—at least not back in the early 1990’s. “I just happened to take an anthropology class at the College of Southern Nevada and realized I wanted to be an anthropologist and pursue a career in the museum field and the cultural arts,” he says.
Since taking that path less traveled, Alvarez has spent decades curating, creating, and preserving Las Vegas’ indomitable creative spirit, explaining that being born and raised here has helped him to “truly grasp what makes our city fabulous.”
He’s certainly pulled his weight on that front, doing everything from compiling museum exhibitions to collaborating with local artists on some of the world-class street art that has become a staple around town. Anything that will encourage visitors to see beyond the neon and the nightlife and appreciate the unique art, architecture, the people and the stories shaping this one-of-a-kind destination for generations—Alvarez is on it.
Now, with hundreds of projects under his belt, the professional art and history curator speaks warmly of his experience within the region’s tight knit arts community. “We all know each other and help support artists and creatives collectively,” he says. “There are hundreds if not thousands of arts related businesses that are helping elevate the creative arts in our city.”
And lately, he says, the world is really starting to take notice. “More and more of our visitors are seeking another side of Vegas, and that is anchored squarely in the arts.”
When they arrive in town, they’ll find an art scene has never been more vibrant—with the burgeoning Arts District as an alluring hub.
“Recycled Propaganda gallery is a must-see as is MAD Gallery, which features only local artists,” Alvarez says. “The street art up and down all the alleyways in the neighborhood is also a must-see, especially since it’s constantly changing.”
Other favorites in the district include Redial Symmetry by sculptor Luis Varela-Rico, which Alvarez calls “the best local sculpture in Las Vegas,” as well as Breaking Ground, by sculptor Steven Ligouri.
Elsewhere in town, he recommends stops at Barrick Museum of Art at UNLV, the Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum, and Slonina Art Space gallery on Fremont Street.