As a Hispanic artist with disabilities caused from Spinocerebellar Ataxia—a rare progressive neurological disease that affects Merida-Payte’s ability to walk, talk, balance, and use fine motor skills—her artwork not only considers the essential structure of skeletal or embryonic animal references, but has become a vehicle to interpret transformative changes occurring in her body caused from the progression of the disease. Also, Merida-Payte’s work researches and brings awareness to people living with disabilities while pushing the boundaries of contemporary art.
She holds an MFA from the University of Cincinnati and a BFA from the Art Academy of Cincinnati. Her work has been featured in exhibitions and publications regionally, nationally and internationally. Merida-Paytes has taught at all levels throughout the Midwest and served in various professional positions, including Gallery Director at FUNKeFIRED ARTS and Art Director/Founder of the Kennedy Heights (Ohio) Art Center. She was appointed a co-liaison for the 2021 NCECA Conference and served on the NCECA Board of Directors.
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