February 27, 2023
Born in Juarez, Mexico, artist Vania Soto leans on her ancestry to guide her work.
“I use my heritage as inspiration for all the colors I use in my work,” Vania said. “I think of myself as a storyteller.”
Vania is a prolific muralist, creating about 12 murals in the Kansas City area over the last six years. Her reputation, combined with her connection to the local Hispanic community, is what made her the perfect artist for The University of Kansas Cancer Center’s new mural. The mural is located at Guadalupe Centers Middle School, 2640 Belleview Avenue, Kansas City, Mo.
The mural is part of the cancer center’s broader effort to educate and increase awareness about the importance of participating in clinical trials, particularly amongst minority communities. Minority populations suffer disproportionately from cancer, yet there is limited clinical research data for minorities. According to 2020 FDA data, 75% of clinical trial participants were white, 6% Asian, 11% Hispanic and 8% Black. Underrepresentation in clinical research contributes to health inequities.
The four people featured in the mural participated in the broader campaign. Each participant has their own cancer experience as a survivor or co-survivor. Kim Jones, a member of the cancer center’s patient research advocacy group (PIVOT) and cancer survivor, is pictured in the mural.
“It's important for African Americans and people of color to participate in clinical trials so they are included in the research process,” said Kim. “I know from personal experience as a co-survivor/caregiver that participating in clinical trials can give someone an extension of life that they didn't have before.”
Using Art to Raise Awareness About Access to Clinical Trials
Partnering with the cancer center
“She grew up in the neighborhood where the mural is located,” Vania added. “I am so happy that she and her family will be able to see it.”
The 16-foot-tall mural occupies a wall at Guadalupe Centers Middle School. While Vania was painting it, art teachers and their students approached her to learn more about the mural. Vania hopes that her contribution to the campaign continues to spark conversations and boosts awareness about the value of diverse clinical trial participation.
“My job is to create bright stories on the walls that will hopefully surpass generations,” Vania said. “Murals create and strengthen communities, and they bring awareness of the bigger picture, in this case the importance of clinical trial participation, to neighborhoods.”