Efren Adkins values the exploration of personal identity, community connection and the transformative power of art as they navigate the meaning and purpose in life. As a biracial and bicultural artist and teacher, Adkins’ background has fueled their curiosity about identity, belonging and making sense of where they come from. This curiosity manifested in the form of art, becoming a driving force in their journey. Originally hailing from a small town near the Mexican border in Arizona, Adkins’ journey led them to Chicago for art school, where they have spent the last 16 years uncovering the facets of art and community within the city. This is what their Chicago sounds like.

This segment of “This Is What Chicago Sounds Like” was produced by Ari Mejia.