Tragic loss of Paco Velez Anzueto

Updated Plans for Paco:

To celebrate our beloved Paco, please join us for a memorial celebration at the studio.

Public Memorial Celebration

Saturday, March 2nd

3:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Studio ONE: A Space for Art and Activism

197 E Toole Avenue

Tucson, AZ 85701

We are beyond devastated to have lost such a vibrant, talented and loving soul, Paco Velez Anzueto. Paco was a much loved husband, son, son-in-law, brother, nephew, uncle, fur father and friend to many. Paco & his wife Sarah had recently relocated to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Paco passed away unexpectedly in their home on Monday, February 12. As you can imagine, it is an extremely difficult situation for Sarah having to navigate the cultural and bureaucratic obstacles to get Paco home. This sudden tragedy will leave Sarah without income or housing as she prepares to leave Saudi Arabia. Paco and Sarah's beloved dog, Emiliano, will also need to be cared for and eventually relocated back to the US. The loss of Paco has already resulted in numerous unexpected and mounting fees associated with bringing him home for an end of life celebration. For those that know and love Paco, art is his passion. Funds are also needed to keep Studio One: A Space For Art & Activism, an essential part of downtown Tucson's arts district, open and operating.

Paco was born in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico and spent decades living and working in Tucson, AZ. Paco’s activism as an artist, teacher, and in social services propelled movements for rights for LGBTQ+ youth and adults, BIPOC community members, immigrants, undocumented folx, survivors of domestic violence, people living with HIV/AIDS, youth and education, and animal rescue.

As an immigrant to the US who grew up in the border, Paco’s compelling and colorful paintings and murals focus on bringing social justice issues to light and celebrating Mexican and Mayan culture. Over the last decade, Paco traveled the world and now his murals adorn buildings in the US, Mexico, China, and Saudi Arabia.

Paco opened his heart and his spaces to community groups, emerging artists, and young people who needed a place to express themselves and share their art and performances with the world.

Please help to alleviate some of the financial burden and related stress Sarah has to endure by contributing to this fund. Any amount you can contribute is greatly appreciated!