A multidisciplinary artist and curator originally from Nicaragua, Wilmer Aburto has spent over two decades turning art into action, amplifying voices and creating space for underrepresented communities. As the Creative Communities Lead at Calgary Queer Arts Society and a member of various advisory boards, he’s reshaping what representation looks like in this city.
His curatorial vision brought the Alphabet Mafia to Calgary Pride, and he’s back to curate it again in April 2026. Through his work with Fairy Tales Queer Art & Film Festival, one of Canada’s largest 2SLGBTQIA+ festivals, and public art projects like the Pride Walk murals at Central Memorial Park, Aburto proves that art is transformational.
His photography has been featured on the cover of Freq magazine, selected for Italian publication Imago Mundi, and published in Mascular Magazine. His art has travelled from Chicago to Venice, but his heart stays rooted in Calgary.
- “Bow River is at the top of my list. Any season works. I walk along the river, listen to the water, and spot wildlife. Its grounding reminds me how powerful and beautiful this place is, this part of Mohkinstsis. I always leave feeling grateful. It’s the whole experience.”
- “Kawa Espresso Bar. One of Downtown’s creative hubs. Great beverages, tasty food. Open late, friendly staff, occasional live music. You’ll run into artists and creatives here, a place where people hang out and collaborate. Good vibes, whether you’re solo or meeting someone. This is where it happens.”
- “La Fritanga Nicaragüense Latin Food. Family-run Nicaraguan street food that hits. Hearty, authentic cooking made with care. The carne asada is on point, the ingredients are fresh, and plantains, rice, and beans do their thing. Grab the tres leches cake too. To me, this tastes like home. You’ll be back.”
- “SpanicArts. Grassroots arts hub that actually gets it. Visual arts, fashion, music, performance, and cultural heritage. Real space for artists and their communities to connect and create. They’re building something genuine here. Support it.”
- “Community. Getting together with Rang De Pride, catching events at Black Pride YYC, a Kiki Ball by Vogue YYC, celebrating with Colores Del Alma, or catching a film at Fairy Tales. These spaces matter because I see myself reflected in them, where art becomes action. This is the community we’re building.” —KS
