By
Erin Coulehan
Photography provided by
La Nube
The shape of Downtown is changing as visitors are encouraged to take a respite from the Sun City heat and enjoy a walk in the clouds inside a multilevel masterpiece made of an undulating series of barrel vaults that extend above a cloud-like canopy, supported by a linear glass foundation.
La Nube STEAM Discovery Center is a distinctive hybrid institution that seamlessly integrates the educational elements of a science center with the interactive experiences of a children’s museum, imbued with a generous portion of fun. By offering STEAM-focused exhibits and immersive programs, La Nube ignites curiosity and fuels the imagination of learners of all ages and abilities with a mission to ignite creativity and inspire visitors to explore, create, and innovate.
The name “La Nube,” which translates to “the cloud” in Spanish, embodies the center’s ethos of limitless possibilities and connectivity. This metaphorical cloud signifies the potential of imagination and creativity, a fitting emblem for a place designed to spark curiosity and learning.
La Nube is more than just a science and learning center: it is a vibrant community space where education, art, and culture converge. By blending interactive exhibits with artistic installations, La Nube creates a dynamic environment that stimulates curiosity, fosters creativity, and celebrates the unique cultural heritage of the Borderland.
As it opens its doors, La Nube promises to be a transformative force in the region, inspiring visitors of all ages to explore, create, and imagine.
But, most importantly, to play.
With its innovative design, collaborative spirit, and commitment to education and the arts, La Nube is poised to become a cherished landmark in Downtown El Paso, igniting the spark of discovery for generations of El Pasoans and tourists.
La Nube’s executive team is bringing the dream to life with a group of skilled leaders, each contributing their expertise to drive the organization’s vision forward.
At the helm is Stephanie Otero, interim CEO of La Nube and VP of Operations at the El Paso Community Foundation who provides strategic guidance focused on innovation and growth. Karen Gonzalez, the VP of Administration & Finance, ensures that the organization’s operations are efficient and financially robust. Mick Martinez, Director of Marketing and Communications, shapes the brand’s presence and messaging with his strategic approach. Miranda Diaz, VP of Talent & Culture, is dedicated to cultivating a dynamic and inclusive workplace environment. Karla Salazar, Senior Vice President, plays a crucial role in overseeing key strategic initiatives. Chris Nunez, VP of Facilities & Exhibits, manages the physical spaces and exhibits with meticulous attention to detail. Alan Martinez, VP of Guest Experience & Business Operations, enhances visitor interactions and operational efficiency. Alysha Swann, Director of Community Outreach & Special Programs, builds and nurtures community relationships while leading special initiatives. Deana White, VP of Learning & Experiences, designs transformative learning experiences for the organization’s audience. Though not pictured, Natalie Eckberg, VP of Development & Stakeholder Relations, is instrumental in driving development efforts and stakeholder engagement.
Together, this accomplished team steers La Nube towards continued success and innovation.
Otero’s years of leadership extend beyond her roles as VP of Operations and Interim CEO, reflecting her deep-rooted commitment to community service.
“I’ve been part of the project since the agreement was signed,” she says. “I did all the research to look at best practices across the country. ‘How are other communities impacted by institutions like children’s museums?’ Then I led the effort of a strategic master plan.”
In 2012, more than 75 percent of voters in El Paso approved a quality-of-life bond for various city projects, which included a children’s museum. By 2016, although the funds were available, progress had stalled. Community stakeholders urged the El Paso Community Foundation to prioritize the children’s museum, highlighting its potential for educational impact and economic benefits, such as increased tourism and business attraction.
An LLC was established to blend quality-of-life bond funds, taxpayer dollars, and private contributions to bring the vision to life. Originally budgeted at $19.2 million, the city agreed to double this amount, raising the total to about $39 million that included a two percent allocation for public art.
The remaining $72 million was obtained through private fundraising, which included a $10 million donation from Paul and Alejandra Foster for the project’s capital campaign. The Foster family was later honored with their name displayed in La Nube’s Grand Foyer.
“Paul and I are thrilled to support this incredible venue. La Nube is more than just a center for STEAM education; it embodies a borderless spirit and a warm welcome to all,” said Alejandra. “This space celebrates the connection between El Paso and our neighbors in Mexico, reflecting our shared cultures and language. The Connected Sky, linking to La Rodadora in Juárez, is a perfect example. We’re excited to contribute to creating a lasting impact for everyone in the Borderplex.”
The partnership is made possible by Flō Networks (Flō), a leading provider of digital infrastructure solutions and connectivity services. Using a state-of-the-art, dedicated point-to-point fiber line, Flō provides essential high-speed connectivity to bring Connected Sky to life. This ultrafast connection enables 4K video and real-time graphics to be streamed bi-directionally across the border, making guests at both museums feel like they are in the same space simultaneously.
Guests entering the lobby of either museum will see themselves represented to actual scale on a 28-foot-wide video wall. In real-time, guests in both museums can interact to make cloud forms, share rainbows, shoot fireworks, create paper planes, and more. The experience is so seamless that visitors can even play a game of volleyball with the sun across the border, with guests in El Paso and visitors in Juárez reacting to the content with millisecond precision.
This innovative collaboration bridges two museums, miles apart and divided by a border, into a shared digital space.
“The Connected Sky interaction allows us to understand how technology and science can be very powerful tools to transcend physical barriers. This exhibition offers the public a real-time visual transmission that connects these two emblematic border cities through play and allows us to understand that we all live under the same sky and do not need words to communicate and respect each other,” said Monica Felix, Executive Director at La Rodadora Interactive Space.
Architectural Brilliance
La Nube’s architecture exemplifies a blend of forward-thinking innovation and personal connection, creating a space that is groundbreaking and deeply rooted in the community. The design transcends conventional museum aesthetics by integrating modern architectural elements with features that reflect and celebrate El Paso’s rich cultural heritage. This fusion enhances the educational experience and fosters a sense of belonging and engagement among visitors, making La Nube a vibrant and meaningful space where innovative design meets heartfelt community ties.
Elaine Molinar’s journey exemplifies how personal passion and professional achievement intersect.
Growing up in El Paso, she was captivated by the architecture and vibrancy of Downtown, then pursued architecture as a career. Her dreams of contributing to an urban landscape have been realized through her role as managing director for the New York office of Snøhetta.
Snøhetta is renowned for its innovative approach to design, crafted a structure that mirrors the concept of “Blue Sky Thinking,” which symbolizes limitless possibilities and unity. This approach is found in the museum’s architecture and exhibitions, with bilingual, immersive, and interactive learning experiences designed for a diverse audience. Additionally, the architecture firm integrated features into the design that complement El Paso’s arid climate, such as shaded groves and a cooling mist playground.
Molinar’s involvement represents a full-circle moment, connecting her childhood admiration for Downtown El Paso with her professional accomplishments.
“I never thought I’d have the good fortune to work in my hometown, because I’ve lived so far away for so long,” says Molinar, who’s based in New York City. “But a design competition was launched, and we were shortlisted along with two other firms. We were selected by a popular vote as the preferred choice.”
The striking design was developed with extensive input from parents, educators, and community members, ensuring that La Nube’s exhibits and learning zones resonate deeply with local culture and values.
“We wanted to make sure that this was built by the community, for the community. We ran 32 public meetings to engage the community, open town hall meetings where anybody could show up, but also more in-depth sessions with K-12 science teachers and homeschool parents to understand what the community wanted,” says Otero.
Whether engaging a baby in sensory activities or stimulating the curiosity of an adult, La Nube offers something for everyone, aiming to advance community development through positive, inclusive experiences.
La Nube is not just about traditional exhibits; it integrates art deeply into its educational mission. This is evident in several highly anticipated artistic installations that enhance the center’s educational offerings and celebrate El Paso’s exquisite scene.
These art installations will serve as a dynamic extension of La Nube’s educational initiatives, blending visual art with interactive elements to enrich the learning experience and highlight the cultural vibrancy of El Paso:
Christin Apodaca’s Enchanting Mural
One of the standout features of La Nube is the vibrant mural titled “In Our Desert, There Is Magic,” created by El Paso native Christin Apodaca. Located in the Desert Bloom zone, the Chihuahuan Desert’s biodiversity is brought to life through playful colors and intricate details. Apodaca, known for her distinctive black and white line drawings, has created a piece that is both visually stunning and educational.
“The choice of playful colors was a deliberate and joyful decision, intended to resonate with visitors of varying ages. To enhance the immersive quality of the mural, I played with the sizes of different plants and animals. This intentional manipulation aimed not only to represent the diverse inhabitants of the Chihuahuan Desert but also to transport each observer into a realm where the scale of nature becomes a captivating spectacle,” says Apodaca. “In essence, the mural becomes a living canvas, inviting all who encounter it to embark on a visual journey through the enchanting tapestry of the desert, fostering an appreciation for its magic and the multitude of life that calls it home.”
Funded by The Cardwell Foundation, the mural not only showcases local talent but also aims to inspire future generations of artists.
“Funding Christin’s mural was an honor for our family. It highlights the exceptional local talent in our region and aims to inspire future generations of artists,” says Jim Cardwell of The Cardwell Foundation.
Creative Kids’ “Spiritual Guardians of the Desert”
La Nube also features an installation by Creative Kids, titled “Spiritual Guardians of the Desert.” The project features eight alebrije-style sculptured animals, each adorned with vibrant desert landscapes. The installation reflects the creative spirit of El Paso’s youth and is a collaborative effort designed to leave a lasting artistic legacy.
“Art has the power to inspire and transform. This installation is a testament to the creativity of our youth and will serve as a source of inspiration for many years to come, says Stephen Ingle, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Creative Kids.
Gabriel Marquez’s “Kissed by the Sun”
Adding to the center’s artistic allure is Gabriel Marquez’s mural, “Kissed by the Sun.” Supported by Lauterbach, Borschow & Co., this piece combines traditional and contemporary techniques to celebrate the natural beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert. Marquez’s intricate line drawings and digital composites create a visually arresting artwork that reflects the desert’s wildlife and landscape.
“Our collaboration with La Nube represents our commitment to the vibrant future of El Paso. By supporting Gabriel Marquez’s artistic vision, we contribute to the city’s cultural and educational landscape,” says Matt Kerr of Lauterbach, Borschow & Co.
Marquez’s work explores thoughts of motion and stillness through the use of progressive contour lines, which depict a pictorial realm that wanders between emptiness and fullness. His illustrations represent the culmination of a continuous flow of intricate linear forms with the motif of intertwining threads. Known for his intricate line drawings of fantastically surreal beings and dreamscapes, Marquez often works intuitively and allows the markings he creates to bring about the final outcome of the composition’s imagery.
“I was inspired by the flourishing wildlife native to the Chihuahuan Desert. I bring each element of the composition to life by individually drawing with graphite, scanning at high resolution, and collaging digitally to produce high-quality digital composite images, which I put through the screen-printing process onto wood veneer,” says Marquez.
Margarita Cabrera’s “Craft of Resistance”
In the Challenge It zone, Margarita Cabrera’s Craft of Resistance is a powerful interactive exhibit that honors El Paso’s immigrant community. Featuring thousands of handcrafted copper sculptures representing monarch butterflies, this installation allows visitors to engage with the artwork on magnetic boards. The exhibit celebrates the migration of butterflies and the resilience of the immigrant community, offering a deeply personal and engaging experience.
“’The Craft of Resistance’ celebrates creative innovation, resilience, and the vitality that exists in our border community. It is a privilege to create a sculptural installation honoring immigration history our community can be proud of for La Nube in El Paso, the city where my family migrated about 30 years ago,” says Cabrera.
Cabrera, who is an immigrant, focuses on social-political community issues including cultural identity, migration, violence, inclusivity, labor, and empowerment.
Zones of Discovery and Imagination:
La Nube is structured around nine distinct zones, each designed to offer unique learning experiences and encourage exploration.
1. Anything’s Possible Climber
Presented by the Woody and Gayle Hunt Family Foundation, the 50-foot climber spans all four levels of La Nube. It features a wheelchair challenge course on the top level, combining an art installation with a jungle gym to challenge gross motor skills and explore geometry through its design.
2. Our Sky
Sponsored by the El Paso Community Foundation, this zone focuses on weather and renewable energy. Visitors can engineer buildings to withstand natural disasters, engage with weather readings, and explore meteorology through interactive exhibits and a green-screen weather broadcast.
3. Desert Bloom
This safe space for children ages 0-3 offers opportunities for play and sensory exploration. Little explorers can enjoy music, stories, sandbox play, and balance activities, fostering early developmental skills in a stimulating environment.
4. Follow Your Instincts
Presented by The Arriola Foundation, this zone encourages imaginative play through dress-up, fort-building, and exploring a glow-in-the-dark cavern. It also features a Care Lab where kids of all ages can pretend to be veterinarians.
5. Fly High
Supported by the William and Cita Sanders and the Sanders Foundation, this zone focuses on aerodynamics and creativity. Visitors can design and test paper airplanes, experiment with rocket launchers, and learn about airflow through interactive installations.
6. Puzzle It
Sponsored by W. Silver Recycling, Puzzle It is dedicated to creative problem-solving. Puzzle It features a range of puzzles in English and Spanish, designed to challenge lateral thinking, teamwork, and out-of-the-box strategies.
7. Making Waves
Presented by The Cardwell Foundation, this multi-sensory zone explores the science of sound and music. Visitors can create original music, dive into hands-on coding, and experiment with acoustics using everyday instruments.
8. Flow
Supported by Marathon Petroleum, Flow highlights the magic of water through interactive play. Visitors can engage in bubble programming, dance with water, and learn about water conservation and recycling.
9. Challenge It
Presented by Richard Castro and Family, Challenge It is a hub for building and testing designs. Challenge It offers opportunities for 3-D printing, coding, robotics, and creative problem-solving through interactive exhibits.
While the artists at La Nube inspire with their creativity and vision, Paola Russell enriches the experience with her culinary artistry, bringing her dedication to health and community to the forefront of the learning center’s environment.
As the owner of Healthy Bite, a beloved eatery near San Jacinto Plaza, Russell has dedicated more than a decade to promoting high-quality, nutritious food and creating a health-focused environment. Her dedication to wellness extends beyond her culinary endeavors: she has been instrumental in fostering a stronger, healthier community, one meal at a time.
A proud mother of three and a baseball wife, she initially pursued a career in architecture. However, while studying, she began working at a Greek restaurant. Her love for the restaurant business quickly grew, leading her to realize her true passion and inspiring her to open her own establishment.
Now, Russell is bringing her expertise and enthusiasm to La Nube as the manager of Little Stars Café. Situated on the first floor of the museum, Little Stars Café will offer the exceptional food that has made Healthy Bite a beloved institution, while also showcasing strong female leadership.
“I’ve been blessed to be part owner of Healthy Bite downtown here in El Paso for the better part of the last 14 years while having my mother work alongside me through it all. I have a deep appreciation for the customer experience, and I think that is exhibited when coming into our restaurant,” says Russell. “Whether you’re a first-time or repeat customer, I want you to feel like we are part of one big family. I want people who visit La Nube to feel better options for their families and to help parents have better ingredients available for our children who are the future of our society.”
Open to the public during museum hours, the café will embody Russel’s vision for a vibrant, health-conscious community, providing guests with nutritious and delicious meals in an inspiring setting.
La Nube is poised to be the leading destination for transformative STEAM experiences in El Paso and beyond. It aspires to foster creativity, innovation and engaged learning while championing biculturalism and inclusion.
By uplifting communities and nurturing visionary thinkers and changemakers of tomorrow, La Nube will pave the way for future generations and inspire them to look up to the sky and reach for the stars.
