Born and raised in Mexico, Eumir Aroche-Sanchez is a specialist in Aztec and Mayan culture. He began working at the Arlington Museum of Art in 2021 as a volunteer. Since then, he has joined the staff and is very involved in a wide variety of projects in his role a Special Projects Coordinator. He’s also the brightest smile in the office and shares his positivity with every guest who visits the AMA!
AMA: What do you love most about the work that you do at the AMA?
Eumir Aroche-Sanchez: I really enjoy making videos and taking pictures. I studied photography in Mexico, and for me, it represents capturing moments and expressions that show emotions of the place where we are or the situation we are experiencing.
Additionally, the museum’s Summer Art Camp is a rewarding activity that I help manage. I like to support the students and teachers, and see how the children develop their skills in art and, at the same time, learn new things. Finally, my work within the museum’s historical archive as well as guest relations are roles I also enjoy.
AMA: Tell us about a leader in our community who inspires you.
Eumir: Chris Hightower, the AMA’s President & CEO, inspires me. When I joined the AMA community as a volunteer, Chris was the first person in the US who made me feel at home by talking with me and really listening to me. Chris included me in activities that connected me with friends. He also gave me my very first job in the United States, and has been so open and willing to teach me, extending patience with me as I improve my English skills. Thanks to Chris, I have been able to take the first steps of my professional life in my new country and home.
AMA: When you travel, what kinds of experiences or destinations do you seek out?
Eumir: Since my childhood, I’ve always had an interest in experiencing new places. As an adult, I have sought opportunities to travel to many different destinations throughout the world. When I travel, I like to know the culture, the common life of the people, the typical food of each country, its historical monuments, museums, music, and art. The pyramids of Mexico continue to fascinate me, as well as the natural landscapes.
AMA: Outside of your work, what is one of your personal passions?
Eumir: My Family is always my priority. I like to go for runs, and I love to walk with the goal of taking pictures. I also like to cook Mexican food. My mother taught me very well!
AMA: When you’re out for drinks in Arlington, what is your favorite cocktail or hot beverage and where is your favorite spot to order it?
Eumir: I almost never drink alcohol, but when I do, I enjoy a margarita or one shot of tequila! But I prefer water, unsweetened tea, or a strawberry milkshake! And I love Texas barbecue; it’s delicious.
AMA: When you think about a bright future for the museum, what one thing do you think will contribute most to its long-term success?
Eumir: The future of the museum is AMAzing! The AMA truly embraces new ideas, especially in the way it curates exhibits that are genuinely fresh and unique. It’s fantastic! Long term, I would love to contribute to establishing working relationships with different museums in Latin America and Spain, as well as with different artists. I also believe education is so important, and plan to continue working with children who attend Summer Art Camp and other museum programs that nurture creativity.
AMA: What’s your Texas Rangers walk-on song?
Eumir: In my short time here, I have been to two Texas Rangers games. Every time I hear the song Africa by Toto in the stadium, I am moved.
