Some of your most intriguing and engaging works appear in public and take the form of murals and sculptures. What sense of accomplishment comes with the public exhibits you create which are viewed by such a wide audience? How has your artwork evolved over time?

 

Being self-taught, it is an honor knowing that my art is seen by a wide and diverse audience. It’s a very humbling experience that gives me a profound sense of accomplishment. It’s a unique way to connect with people from all walks of life and I hope that my work can resonate with everyone in some shape or form. Over time, my artwork has evolved as I've continued to explore different mediums and techniques. I've taken various classes to hone my skills. This evolution is a natural part of being an artist; you're always growing and learning, and it keeps the

creative process exciting and fresh.

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How has your work on the Southern Nevada Law Enforcement Memorial and the Harry Reid International Airport differed from your other work? What are the challenges you face when working with such large installments? What is the most challenging piece you have worked on?

 

Working on the Southern Nevada Law Enforcement Memorial and the Harry Reid International Airport projects was a unique experience. These large installations required a lot of planning and coordination, from design to execution. The challenge lies in ensuring that every detail aligns with the vision and how to capitalize on the artwork’s potential within the time frame provided. The most challenging piece I've worked on is probably the Law Enforcement Memorial because of its significance and the responsibility it carried. I have a deep respect

for those who serve their country, and I feel privileged to create artwork in honor of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

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In your installment at Utah Tech University, your pieces vary from vibrant and colorful to muted and monochromatic. Tell us a little bit more about the choices you make when choosing a color palette. What influences your decisions?

 

My choice of a color palette is influenced by the specific project and the emotions I want to convey. Vibrant and colorful palettes may evoke energy and positivity, while muted and monochromatic ones can create a more subdued or contemplative mood. I let the context and the message I want to communicate guide my color choices.

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Many of your pieces are figurative and represent the human form. Can you tell us a little more about this interest in the human body?

 

My interest in the human body stems from my love for comic books, not just as a reader but as an artist. I'm fascinated by what a figure, a single piece, or a particular pose can convey. Fantasy art, which I've always cherished, allows me to explore and express the limitless possibilities of the human form in a fantastical context.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

While you often feature humans in your paintings, your work frequently depicts animals. What role do animals and the natural world play in your art?

 

Animals and the natural world have consistently held a prominent place in my art. They serve as a powerful symbol of the beauty and wonder that surrounds us every day. I'm inherently drawn to the intricate forms, textures, and the captivating stories they can tell. From majestic creatures like wolves, eagles, snakes, and buffalos to the imaginative realm of fantasy with dragons, centaurs, and more, I find endless inspiration in the diverse life forms our world offers.

 

Your LinkedIn profile mentions that you are a painter, sculptor, and "graphic/computer designer & illustrator." How have technological developments, such as computer software and artificial intelligence, influenced your work throughout your career?

 

Technological advancements have undeniably left their mark on my artistic journey. I've enthusiastically embraced computer software and illustration tools to broaden the horizons of my creativity. They provide exciting avenues to experiment and transform ideas into tangible art, working in harmony with traditional techniques. While some may find adapting to change challenging, I wholeheartedly embrace the concept of expressing art in every conceivable form. The introduction of new software may present a learning curve, but my curiosity sees it as an opportunity for growth and innovation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With its mission of inclusion and making art more accessible to a diverse community, how has Left of Center Gallery impacted you personally and as an artist? Has this community influenced your artwork, and if so, how? How does working in a community differ from working

independently?

 

Coming from a poor background in Chicago, I didn't have the opportunity to engage in art discussions. As the middle child among six siblings, there were always other priorities pushed my way over my artistic passion. My connection to art has always been deeply personal. Left of Center Gallery, however, has been a profound influence, not just on my art but as an individual. It's become a family, a place to both teach and learn. This community values inclusivity and accessibility, and being a part of it has fueled my passion for creating art that speaks to a diverse audience. Working within a community offers a different dynamic compared to independent work; it's a collaborative and nurturing environment that nurtures creativity. It's a place where I've watched my kids and grandchildren grow and explore their own artistic talents.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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In your artist's statement with Left of Center, you say, "The spirit of my art comes to me by way of my ancestors, who make me who I am today." Can you speak more on this? How does honoring your past influence your present? In what other ways does artistic expression honor your heritage and your legacy?

 

Honoring my ancestors and heritage holds a special place in my heart and deeply influences my art. This connection to my roots provides my work with a sense of purpose, allowing me to acknowledge where I come from and how it shapes my creative identity. Puerto Ricans have an extraordinary history and culture that I sometimes incorporate into my artwork. Art runs through my family's veins; my mother, aunt, and more have all been a part of this creative lineage, above all, I believe it's a gift from God.

 

What advice do you have for artists who are interested in promoting their artwork, but who are not sure where to start?

 

Just go for it. Experiment with everything, discover what resonates with you, and what doesn't. Above all, make practice a daily ritual, as frequent as possible. People often speak of talent when it comes to being an artist, but what they may not see are the countless hours spent practicing, the layers of paint used to mask errors, or the frustration of repeated setbacks. This journey isn't for the faint of heart. If possible, save your artbooks to look back on every year, I promise you’ll see growth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You appear to be a very prolific artist working in many mediums. Can you tell about a current project or exhibition you are working on? What can we expect to see from you in the future?

 

I recently just finished a foam sculpture for Meow Wolf- in collaboration with YESCO. In the days ahead, you can anticipate encountering a piece titled, “Enriched Heritage” for the city of Las Vegas.