Julio Gonzalez Batista brings a dynamic blend of artistic talent, educational insight, and curatorial experience to his role as Gallery and Artist Relations Manager at the Alliance for the Arts. A proud graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University, Julio earned his Bachelor’s degree in Art and Education, graduating Summa Cum Laude and receiving numerous honors.
His connection to the Alliance began during his college years as a dedicated volunteer, where he gained hands-on experience in exhibition installation and witnessed the organization’s evolution through a pivotal post-pandemic chapter.
Julio’s work is guided by his commitment to uplifting creative voices and building inclusive, vibrant spaces for artistic expression.
Explore his creative work at www.juliojulio.art
With over 25 years of experience as a community advocate and nonprofit leader, Neil Volz brings a deep commitment to the arts, civic engagement, and transformative change. His diverse career has included serving as Chief of Staff in Congress and playing a key role in the passage of Florida’s Amendment 4, which restored voting rights to 1.4 million people.
Recognized by Politico as one of the 40 Most Influential People in Politics and named Florida’s Citizen of the Year, Neil has also contributed to award-winning films, bestselling books, and nationally recognized social campaigns.
Neil stepped into the role of Executive Director of the Alliance for the Arts in March 2025 with heartfelt enthusiasm. “When I moved to Florida nearly 20 years ago, the Alliance was one of the first places that made me feel at home,” he shares. “I experienced firsthand how the arts bring people together, spark creativity, and foster a sense of belonging. That same passion for the Alliance’s mission—transforming lives and strengthening our community through the arts—continues to inspire me today.”
Yshia Condezo began exploring the themes of culture and family through photography from a young age. This led her to pursue filmmaking and photography as mediums for storytelling. She
went on to earn a Bachelor’s in Film Production at Miami Dade College in 2022, where she produced and directed a documentary film, while showcasing her photography. With nearly a
decade of experience in photography, Yshia is a full-time photographer managing her own business and eager to teach others on how to find their own unique perspective behind the
camera.
Jeff Ocasio works collaboratively with his wife, Dale, to create sculpted art expressing an imaginative, storybook spirit. Sculpting with masking tape over wire or reclaimed objects is where their artwork begins. Over a decade ago, Jeff began exploring the artistic uses of masking tape while creating a unique texture over some wood shelving he was building.
Soon realizing he could manipulate the tape and use it like clay to create shapes, he applied his 3-dimensional designs over found objects, and eventually began creating his own armatures with wire to create the freestanding characters and creatures that make up a large portion of their art portfolio today. He found the unusual medium to be liberating and has been teaching his sculpting techniques to help spread the joy of it. Ever since refining their whimsical style of sculpting with masking tape, they’ve been honored to have their art awarded in juried shows and have exhibited their art throughout SW Florida, St. Pete, and Chicago.
ocasiocasa.com
Hailing from Southern California, Michael Hebler relocated to Fort Myers, Florida, in 2014. A passionate film enthusiast, Michael launched his career as an International Film Publicist, collaborating on high-profile projects for major studios such as Disney, Pixar, Lionsgate, and Warner Bros. After moving to Florida, he transitioned into event management, refining his expertise as an Events Project Manager for Rich Dad Education in Cape Coral. In this role, Michael successfully orchestrated large-scale live symposiums throughout North America, delivering seamless experiences while building strong relationships with attendees and vendors.
Michael holds a degree in Theatre Arts from Orange Coast College and is also an award-winning author. His published works include a series of four novels, a novella, multiple short stories, and a children’s picture book. His deep passion for all arts inspires his commitment to fostering community and celebrating the transformative power of creativity.
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