Artscape Spring & Summer 2023
Aimee Alvarez:
Aimee Alvarez is a Mexican American photographer hailing from Huntington Park, but raised in Jurupa Valley, CA. With a passion for media arts, Aimee has been actively engaged in creating art since acquiring her first digital camera in 2007, building upon her prior experience with disposable cameras. Currently serving as the Administrative Support Coordinator for Coyote Radio & Advertising at Cal State San Bernardino, she takes pride in her role of motivating and inspiring students to express themselves through art and creativity. Aimee's deep appreciation for music, coupled with her studies in audio engineering, fuels her love for capturing the essence of lowriders—vehicles that hold special significance, embodying beauty and cultural heritage. Through her lens, Aimee endeavors to immortalize her world and the unique perspectives it offers.
Fredo Armenta:
Fredo Armenta is a mixed media artist with roots in both Los Angeles and Mexico, who later settled in Riverside County during the 2010s. Exploring his artistic pursuits since 2022, Fredo also attends school to further his knowledge in environmental science. His diverse interests encompass poetry, science, literature such as "Lord of the Rings," gaming, music, and dancing. Fredo aspires for his art to empower individuals, evoking emotions and creating a meaningful impact. Additionally, he seeks to publish his poetry and serve as an inspiration for others, igniting their own creative journeys.
Iliana Becerra:
Iliana Becerra, a Riverside-based artist, primarily specializes in oils and watercolors, utilizing her overactive mind and adoration for vibrant colors to embrace the joy of painting. Through her artwork, she translates her unique perspective and expresses her vision, using art as a medium to convey emotions that transcend language. Having spent the majority of her life in Riverside County, with a brief period in Mexico during her childhood, Iliana's Hispanic heritage profoundly influences her art, evident in the vivid colors and textures she employs in her paintings. Art has always been an integral part of Iliana's life, intertwining her culture and traditions. Alongside her passion for art, Iliana pursued a career in the sciences, majoring in Biology from UC Riverside, and currently serves as a Laboratory Technician at Riverside City College. She continually seeks to develop an original perspective and style, actively exploring new techniques as she untangles her artistic visions while maintaining a balance between her artistic pursuits and scientific endeavors.
Marlyn Barrios:
Marlyn Barrios, a 30-year-old artist, is known for her acrylic and abstract artworks. Her artistic journey began at a young age when she had the opportunity to participate in art classes and events at the Watts Towers Art Center under the guidance of Mrs. Rosie Lee. Marlyn's artistic skills extend to various mediums, including painting, clay art, clay animation, drawing, portraits, oil, and pastels. She has shared her love for art by teaching classes at her son's school and organizing art stations for birthday parties, fostering creativity in her nieces, nephews, and her own children. Marlyn has been featured in the Santa Fe Springs Art Crawl Fest since 2018 and aims to expand her presence by showcasing her artwork in additional art shows and museums to further her growth as an artist. She takes pleasure in nurturing her children's artistic abilities and cherishes the moments they spend together exploring and creating art. Marlyn sincerely appreciates your time and consideration.
James Clark:
James Clark, a digital and multimedia artist, hails from Riverside and was raised in Hemet and Perris. With a creative journey spanning back to the age of 15, James is currently collaborating with a small team on the development of a visual novel. He has lent his artistic skills to create captivating artwork for various musical artists, designed promotional material for a local radio station, and assumed leadership roles as an art director and webmaster for a significant conference. In addition, James is a musician, recording and producing music, while also hosting a garage rock radio show/blog that delves into rock music from the mid-50s to the mid-70s. With his art, James aims to shed light on the diverse culture prevalent in the Inland Empire, aspiring to contribute to the local art scene through the creation of a public artwork, be it a sculpture or mural, within Riverside or its surrounding areas.
Stephanie Cush:
Stephanie Cush is a mixed media artist who relocated to Riverside in 2010. Her artistic endeavors revolve around capturing the essence of nature, often involving collaborative projects with her children. Stephanie's passion for nature-inspired art has been a lifelong pursuit, guiding her creative journey. Outside of her artistic pursuits, she finds solace in gardening, a cherished pastime during her leisure hours.
Gus Camacho:
Gus Camacho, an abstract artist, was born in Montebello and spent his early childhood in Maywood before settling in Moreno Valley at the age of 12. Over the years, he has lived in various cities across Southern California, including Los Angeles and Palm Springs. Currently, Gus has made Riverside his home for more than 10 years, where he resides with his girlfriend and owns a house. Throughout his artistic journey, Gus has explored different mediums, starting with graffiti in his youth and expanding into diverse artistic expressions. He pursues his passion as a full-time artist, continuously honing his craft. Gus has previously exhibited his artwork at Mind & Mill and continues to actively engage in showcasing his pieces in various venues.
Maryam Crogman:
Maryam Crogman, a painter and sketch artist, hails from France, the Caribbean, and Africa. With a lifelong passion for art starting from her toddler years, she currently owns a studio and operates a paint and sip company in Riverside, California. Her work has been exhibited at prestigious venues, including the UCM Gallery, The Meek House, the Riverside Art Walk, the Ontario Museum of History and Arts, and the Riverside Arts Museum, where she recently completed a significant historical mural. Maryam draws inspiration from her Western and Afro-Caribbean roots, African and Afro-American art, street art, Pop Art, European Impressionism, and Pointillism. Through a combination of minimal lines, bold colors, silver/golds, patterns, symbols, and textures, she creates captivating pieces using acrylic, paint pens, 3D objects, oil pastels, spray paint, and stencils on various surfaces. Besides her artistic pursuits, Maryam is also an author of children's stories, a professor, and an athlete, sharing a passion for people, children, skating/climbing, and global travel. Currently, she focuses on a series that addresses social justice themes, exploring the human condition, colorism, and facial expressions. Maryam is actively preparing for upcoming shows and local galleries while working on developing an art curriculum and workbook that highlights Black Art's contributions to society and various art techniques.
Christophe Cuellar:
Christophe' Cuellar, a mixed media artist born in Riverside, California, has possessed a deep passion for the arts since an early age. Over the past 15 years, Christophe has dedicated his creative energy to crafting surrealism and modern art, employing various mediums such as pencil, charcoal, pastels, and paint. With a bold and adventurous spirit, he eagerly embraces the opportunity to create art that defies boundaries and challenges expectations. Christophe finds inspiration in breaking the rules and venturing into uncharted artistic territory, continuously pushing the boundaries of his artistic exploration.
Donna Elliot:
Donna Elliot, a versatile artist, excels in painting, photography, mixed media, and textile art. Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, she has been residing in Idyllwild, California since 2011. Donna's artwork comes alive with vibrant colors, particularly evident in her captivating alcohol ink paintings. Her deep connection with nature is a prominent theme in her work, as she draws inspiration from her time spent amidst mountains, canyons, waterfalls, and the surrounding flora and fauna. Donna is an esteemed member of the Art Alliance of Idyllwild (AAI), where she showcases and sells her award-winning art in local galleries and exhibitions. Passionate about art education, she actively teaches art through the Idyllwild School PTA smARTS program. Additionally, Donna currently serves as the President of the AAI, demonstrating her commitment to supporting and uplifting the local art community.
Enrique Escobedo:
Enrique Escobedo, a talented painter, hails from Santa Ana, CA. With a passion for art that dates back to his early childhood at the age of 4, Enrique currently serves as the director of A Blve Rose art gallery located in Downtown Riverside. His artwork has been showcased in numerous galleries throughout Southern California. Drawing inspiration from his diverse experiences and the individuals he encounters, Enrique believes that the environment in which art is created holds equal importance to the artwork itself. By immersing himself in his surroundings, he aims to create and share reflections of his profound love for the artistic process.
Raymond Fernandez:
Raymond Fernandez, a native of Santa Monica, California, has established himself as a dedicated painter. Since relocating to Riverside in 2008, Raymond has showcased his artwork in local galleries, including the prestigious Riverside Art Museum, while also undertaking commissioned projects across Southern California. The driving force behind Raymond's artistic endeavors stems from his innate urge to create. Each painting becomes a spiritual journey, expressing the mood or idea that captivates him in the present moment. He firmly believes that art possesses the ability to communicate with an individual or a group on an emotional level, fostering a profound personal connection. Raymond's artistic style may vary, but his heart remains steadfast in his aspiration to convey visions of love, beauty, joy, and mystery. Through his art, he seeks to offer healing and transmit a profound sense of love to others.
Eloisa Garcia-Caro:
Eloisa Garcia-Caro, a painter and doodler, was born and raised in Fresno, California, where she was exposed to the vibrant graffiti scene that surrounded her. Drawing inspiration from the dynamic interplay of bold colors and funky compositions, Eloisa has been actively creating art since her childhood. She pursued her passion for art by attending Humboldt State University, graduating in 2020 with a Bachelor's degree in Fine Art. Many of her pieces showcased were created during her time at the university. After completing her studies, Eloisa relocated to the Palm Springs area in Riverside County. She has exhibited her work in various locations, participating in timed challenges and producing 15 pieces in a month in areas such as Arcata and Eureka, California. Eloisa aspires to travel to different places to experience art firsthand and engage in more artistic endeavors. Alongside her art practice, she has worked in production for over three years, encountering amazing individuals from diverse backgrounds. During her free time, Eloisa indulges in her passion for drawing, continually honing her artistic skills.
Eric Gazca:
Eric Gazca, a mixed media artist, was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley before relocating to the Inland Empire in the early 2000s. Since 2021, Eric has been actively working in Riverside. Drawing has been a part of Eric's life since the 3rd grade, primarily focusing on comics. However, his artistic perspective took a transformative turn when he discovered the work of Basquiat as a young man, opening his eyes to the limitless possibilities of mixed media art. Currently, Eric is embarking on a personal journey to overcome internal insecurities and uncertainties in his artistic path, forging his own unique trajectory. This exhibition marks Eric's inaugural submission, a significant milestone in his artistic career. Alongside his art, he engages in hobbies such as reading, writing, watching anime and movies, and is self-teaching the art of sculpting. Eric aspires to immerse himself in the vibrant Riverside art scene, working towards establishing a successful career as an artist.
Sean Golriz:
Sean Golriz, a contemporary and fluid artist, is based in Lake Elsinore, California. Born in Iran, he migrated to the United States in 1992 and has resided in the Inland Empire for the past 12 years. In May 2022, Sean moved to Lake Elsinore, finding inspiration in the scenic surroundings. From a young age, Sean displayed a talent for drawing and later ventured into acrylic and oil painting on canvas during his twenties. In 2021, he discovered his passion for acrylic pouring and mixed media, expanding his artistic horizons. Sean draws inspiration from the five elements of life—Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space—forming the essence of everything in nature. Alongside his artistic pursuits, Sean works in the IT field and finds solace in playing the Handpan when he is not immersed in painting.
Misty Green:
Misty Green, a mixed media artist, was born in San Bernardino and raised in Riverside, California. Throughout her life, Misty has immersed herself in the world of art, often showcasing her creations on her family's refrigerator. Her passion for visual art flourished during middle school, where she took her first art class, sparking a journey of independent artistic exploration throughout high school and into her adult life. Misty has successfully sold her artwork at various art walk events in Downtown Riverside, establishing a connection with the local art community. Outside of her artistic pursuits, she finds joy in caring for her animals and actively seeks out new avenues for artistic expression. With her artistic journey, Misty aspires to inspire her daughter, fostering a belief in unlimited possibilities.
Lessllie Real Hernandez:
Lessllie Real Hernandez, a mixed media artist, arrived in Riverside after 2015 when she began attending UC Riverside. Her artistic journey began at the age of 13, and she currently focuses on enhancing her 3D drawing skills. Lessllie has showcased her artwork at Montclair High School and during her tenure at Amazon. She takes delight in drawing on shirts and posters, infusing her art with a touch of personalization. Alongside her artistic pursuits, Lessllie is currently learning to play the piano and possesses a love for singing. Through her art, she aspires to evoke deep thoughts and emotions in others, hoping to inspire them to explore new avenues such as submitting their artwork for exhibits. Lessllie views drawings as fragments of the artist's essence, and she wishes to encourage others to pursue drawing even if it cannot be their full-time dedication. She believes in the importance of continually challenging oneself as an artist, regardless of the craft one pursues.
Neil Jenkins:
Neil Jenkins, a painter skilled in pastel, acrylic, and watercolor mediums, was born in Wales, UK. Having lived in various parts of the world, Neil and his wife Donna settled in Idyllwild in 2011. Since 2007, Neil has dedicated himself to the creation of art, which can be admired at numerous locations in Idyllwild and at exhibitions across Southern California. Drawn to the natural beauty of Idyllwild, Neil chose to reside there to indulge in his passion for rock climbing and hiking. When he is not immersed in his studio, Neil can often be found scaling rock faces or conquering peaks, gathering inspiration for his next artistic masterpiece.
Gabriel Jeronimo:
Gabriel Jeronimo, an oil painter, was born in Orange, California, and currently resides in Corona, California. His passion for drawing ignited at a young age, and his parents nurtured his curiosity by providing him with drawing books, fueling his artistic journey. With a deep appreciation for art, Gabriel's favorite teachers introduced him to influential artists like Keith Haring and encouraged him to showcase his artwork in front of the classroom. In 2018, Gabriel completed his education at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. His artwork has been exhibited at art centers and galleries in Oakland and Los Angeles, allowing his talent to be appreciated by a wider audience.
Henry Jimenez:
Henry Jimenez, a photographer and mixed media artist hailing from San Bernardino, has been immersed in the world of art since a young age. As he progressed through high school, Henry began taking his artistic pursuits more seriously. Presently, he primarily focuses on photography, offering a diverse range of services that encompass headshots and capturing special events. Henry's artwork has been featured in high school shows, exhibitions at San Bernardino Valley College, the National Orange Show (NOS) Art Exhibition, the San Bernardino Art Association, as well as smaller venues in Pomona and Whittier. Additionally, he has explored technical theater, delving into lighting design for performing arts at Tibbies Center Stage in Fontana, CA. Looking ahead, Henry is eager to continue his artistic journey by expanding his photography portfolio, exploring painting and mixed media art, and venturing into the realm of film.
Jessica Jimenez:
Jessica Jimenez, a talented photographer, was raised in Riverside and born in Fontana. With a creative journey spanning over 5 years, Jessica has honed her artistic skills and developed a keen eye for capturing compelling images. Her work has been featured at the Cruisin' thru the lens photography exhibit for the past two years, showcasing her passion for capturing the essence of car culture. Throughout Southern California, Jessica can be found at various car shows, where she continues to document and preserve the vibrant automotive scene through her lens.
Rafa Magana:
Rafa Magana, a native of Riverside, is a passionate photographer who embarked on his photography journey in 2017. Currently affiliated with C.T.T.L (Cruisin thru the lense), an esteemed group of photographers in the Inland Empire, Rafa's artistic style knows no bounds as he captures what captivates his eye. While acknowledging the quality of pictures captured by modern cell phones, Rafa firmly believes that the artistry and skill of a dedicated photographer can never be replaced. It was in 2021 that Rafa began immersing himself in car shows and cruises, where he discovered a profound love for the Southern California Lowrider Culture & Scene, inspiring him to document and celebrate this vibrant culture through his photography.
Jocelyn Mulgado:
Jocelyn Mulgado, a talented fine artist specializing in painting and drawing, was born in Upland, CA, and raised in Ontario, CA. At the age of 15, she became an integral part of the Riverside community through her involvement in a local church. Jocelyn's artistic journey began at the tender age of four, and she is currently in her third year at Azusa Pacific University, pursuing a BFA degree. Her artwork has been showcased at notable venues such as Pomona's Artist in the Alley Gallery, Upland Art Walk, LA County Fair, and the Haven City Market. Beyond her artistic pursuits, Jocelyn finds joy in watching movies, visiting arcades, and exploring new recipes in the kitchen. With aspirations to become an art professor and art gallery curator, she is driven to share her passion for art while nurturing and promoting the creative endeavors of others.
Kamelyta Noor:
Kamelyta, an abstract expressive finger painter, originally hailing from Malaysia, has found her home in Moreno Valley since 1998. Beginning her artistic journey in 2017, Kamelyta creates vibrant and captivating works using acrylic as her medium of choice. Her art is characterized by assertive and brilliantly colorful palettes that reflect her own emotions and inner world. With dynamic brushstrokes that convey movement and envelop viewers with a mesmerizing rainbow of colors, Kamelyta's work often tells stories through the language of color. Exhibiting a range of emotions and experiences, she believes that her art brings life to her stories, evoking similar emotions in others. Kamelyta's artwork has graced prestigious galleries such as Perimeter Gallery and Hive Gallery in Los Angeles, Five 3 Gallery and Las Lagunas Gallery in Laguna Beach, Geo-Metrics Gallery in Ontario, Joshua Tree Art Gallery in Joshua Tree, and has been featured in the Riverside Art Museum and Chaffey Community Museum of Art. She has also held a solo exhibition of her work in partnership with the City of Fontana and had the honor of showcasing her works at the Ontario International Airport most recently.
Mollie Ong:
Mollie Ong, a talented painter and animator, was born in Loma Linda, California. Her artistic journey began with a passion for art from a young age, but it was during her time at Riverside Community College starting in 2013 that she received formal art education. Mollie went on to earn a BFA in animation from the esteemed California Institute of the Arts in 2020. Currently, she works as a freelance illustrator/animator, showcasing her versatile skills, and also shares her expertise as an animation instructor at RCC. Mollie's artwork has been featured in various group shows across Southern California, and her talent has been recognized through awards from renowned organizations like the Portrait Society and Society of Illustrators. With a strong desire to tell stories through both painting and animation, Mollie aims to simultaneously develop her painting career while pursuing opportunities in the animation industry, allowing her to fully express her creative vision in multiple art forms.
Ekaterina Orlovie:
Ekaterina Orlovie, a mixed media watercolor artist, was born in Russia and has found her home in Riverside for the past 10 years. With a lifelong passion for art that began as soon as she could hold a brush, Ekaterina has established herself as a dedicated working artist and muralist. Her artwork has been showcased at The Artlands in Redlands, and she is an esteemed member of the Eastside Arthouse. Drawing inspiration from fairy tales and the enchanting wonders of the natural world, Ekaterina's creations are infused with whimsy and magic. Apart from her artistic pursuits, she finds joy in spending time with her family, exploring local botanical gardens, and going camping. With an ambitious spirit, Ekaterina aspires to create more captivating murals and fulfill her dream of publishing her own illustrated book of fairy tales.
Veronica Ortega:
Veronica Ortega, a talented visual artist based in the Inland Empire, was born in Arizona and raised in California. Through her artwork, Veronica explores themes inspired by her Chicana culture, personal experiences, and innate curiosity. Her artistic repertoire includes acrylic and watercolor creations that convey depth and meaning. Veronica's artwork has been showcased in various exhibitions and venues across Riverside, Southern California, and Arizona. Notable highlights of her artistic journey include being featured in the Inlandia Literary online journal, exhibiting at the Los Angeles Museum of Latino Art, Division 9 Gallery, Latino Network Cesar Chavez exhibits, and participating in VatosyViclas art events. While she continues to dedicate herself to her artistic practice, Veronica also works full-time in the field of social services, balancing her creative pursuits with her commitment to making a positive impact in the community.
Enedino Padilla:
Enedino (Dino) Padilla, a dedicated painter, relocated to Riverside County in 2017. Inspired by the unprecedented circumstances of the first Covid lockdown in 2020, Dino delved into the world of art creation. Currently, he is pursuing studies at the Foundation Art School online, further refining his artistic skills. Dino has had the privilege of showcasing his artwork at the Riverside Art Museum during their annual sale, offering a glimpse into his unique artistic perspective. Additionally, he actively participates in the Urban Sketchers of Riverside group, capturing the essence of the city's inspiring locations through on-site painting sessions. With a focus on portrait and landscape painting, Dino aspires to grow as an artist, using traditional mediums to share his distinctive experiences and viewpoints with the world.
Velocity Parker:
Velocity Parker, a dynamic mixed media artist, was raised in San Jose, California, and later made Riverside, California her home to pursue studies in psychology and art (studio) at the University of California, Riverside, where she successfully completed her degree in 2022. Velocity's artistic journey began early in life, but it was at the age of 18 that she committed herself more seriously to her craft. Currently, she explores various mediums including acrylic paint, fiber, and video, utilizing abstraction to delve into personal and subjective experiences, aiming to recreate and reimagine them. Notable exhibitions of Velocity's work have taken place at the Sweeney Art Gallery, and she also holds the distinction of being a founding member of the esteemed art collective, FSHCAKEZ. Looking ahead, Velocity aspires to further develop her artistic voice and continue her pursuit of fine arts education, propelling her creative journey to new heights.
Dalia Penaloza:
Dalia Penaloza, a talented mixed media artist and proud Chicana, was born in Lancaster, CA, and grew up in both Northern and Southern California. Despite her childhood marked by frequent moves, Dalia considers Riverside County to be her true home. With a creative spirit that emerged at the young age of 7, she has been dedicated to her artistic pursuits ever since. Currently, Dalia is attending beauty school while managing her small business. In her artwork, she showcases her community using nostalgic collectibles known as Homies, infusing her pieces with a sense of cultural nostalgia. Dalia has participated in local art contests and served as a vendor at notable events such as the 2nd Annual Photography Exhibit and Car Show hosted by Cruisinthruthelens in Riverside. Art has always been Dalia's preferred form of expression, and she dreams of owning her own salon one day, where she can display and sell her artwork alongside her professional services. Additionally, she is dedicated to expanding her small business, offering Homies accessories and jewelry, while continuing to share her love for her culture with others through her art.
Sam Rathman:
Sam Rathman, a versatile artist specializing in painting, mixed media, and graphic design, was born in Sequim, Washington, and has called Riverside, CA home since 2019. His artistic journey began at the age of 14, and he is currently pursuing his education at Crafton Hills Community College. Sam is excited to showcase his inaugural artwork at the Riverside Art Council, an experience that has ignited a newfound passion for art as a career. Inspired by the vibrant local art scene and the captivating installations scattered throughout the city, Sam credits Riverside for his artistic awakening. He draws inspiration from visits to antique stores and thrift shops, finding joy in discovering unique oddities. As the year progresses, Sam plans to further his art education by pursuing a major in graphic design. Additionally, he aspires to explore various mediums and expand his artistic horizons, including the exciting prospect of designing furniture.
Yisenia Sanchez:
Yisenia Sanchez, a talented mixed media artist, was born in 1978 to a Costa Rican mother and Puerto Rican father. Raised in Silverlake, CA, and Sherman Oaks, CA, she later migrated to Riverside with her immediate family in 2011 after getting married. Yisenia pursued her education at Riverside City College from 2016 to 2023, earning an Associate's Degree in Fine and Applied Arts, as well as Associate's Degrees in Communications, Media & Languages, and Humanities, Philosophy, and Arts. With a strong passion for art, she plans to continue her studies at the Bachelor's Degree level, exploring various art forms. In 2019, she served as an artist in residence for a non-profit organization in the Moreno Valley School District, where she shared her artistic expertise with children in grades one to three, teaching them the art of sculpting, drawing, and painting from life. Yisenia's artwork has been featured as a Production Art Assistant in several television shows and small movies, including collaborations with Amazon Prime and The American Film Institute. She has been creating art since the age of 7 and began pursuing art professionally in 2020. Establishing her own online art business, Yesenia Sanchez Art Creations, in 2020, she offers her original artwork on various mediums, including clothing, home decor, and accessories. Her future plans include creating illustrations for a children's book and launching a dog clothing line. While she previously instructed paint parties, she temporarily paused these activities due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Yisenia's artistic journey saw its first showcase in 2017 at the VivalaMuxer Community Art Show in Los Angeles, CA. In her spare time, she enjoys classic car shows, visiting art museums, gardening, dancing, cooking, walking their pug, and indulging her passion for collecting items from the mid-century modern era.
Michael Sedano:
Michael Sedano, a talented painter and muralist, was born and raised in Riverside. His artistic journey began during his high school years, and he has since dedicated himself as a full-time artist. Michael's captivating artwork has been featured in several esteemed art galleries, including The Gramercy, Curated Chronicles, and Artist Tree. Additionally, his creations have graced the walls of various coffee shops, such as Back to the Grind, Twee, and GoodtimesLB. One can also admire Michael's vibrant murals in prominent locations, spanning from Newport Beach and Los Angeles to Riverside and Downtown Upland. When he's not immersed in his artistic pursuits, Michael enjoys the thrill of thrifting and discovering unique items that he can transform into art. With a promising future ahead, he eagerly anticipates more solo shows in galleries and exciting collaborations that will further elevate his artistic career.
Niniane Selene:
Niniane Selene, a talented watercolor and mixed media artist, was born in Northern California and made Riverside County her home in 2020. From the age of 14, Niniane has passionately pursued her artistic endeavors, and currently, she works as a freelance artist while also pursuing her studies in art education. With a strong presence in the local art scene, Niniane regularly showcases and sells her artwork at various events, including the esteemed Riverside Artswalk. Her artistic talent has also been recognized in the literary journal MUSE, published by Riverside City College. Niniane's art focuses on capturing the beauty of both people and nature, offering a unique perspective that resonates with others. Engaging with Riverside's vibrant artist community brings her great joy, as she takes pride in creating art that fosters connections and resonates deeply with viewers.
Sonia Sleeger:
Sonia Sleeger, a talented multidisciplinary artist, was born and raised in West Covina, CA, and later moved to Norco in October of 2020. With a creative journey spanning over 5 years, Sonia has honed her artistic skills and found success in her craft. As a dedicated artist and a mother of two, she manages to balance her passion for art with her family life. Sonia is an active member of the Pomona Valley Art Association in Claremont, CA, as well as the Corona Art Association in Corona, CA. Her artwork has been showcased and sold through esteemed platforms such as GallerSoho in Claremont, Riverside Art Museum, and numerous art festivals across Southern California. When she's not immersed in her artistic pursuits, Sonia enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones, exploring the outdoors through hiking, and nurturing her garden. She embraces a curious spirit, constantly seeking new art techniques and supporting her fellow artists. Drawing inspiration from her life experiences, Sonia aspires to have her own solo show one day, further establishing herself as an accomplished artist.
Alan Spoonholz:
Alan Sponholz, a talented photographer, was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and has been residing in Southern California since the age of four. With a passion for photography that began at a young age, Alan has honed his skills and established himself as a skilled photographer. His work has been featured in fashion magazines, and he continues to engage with the industry on occasion. Alan particularly enjoys working with black and white film, and he maintains his own darkroom where he meticulously produces wet silver gelatin prints. By embracing analog photography, Alan finds that the process slows things down, enabling him to be a more deliberate and intentional photographer. His dedication to his craft shines through in the quality and artistry of his work.
Sheryl Stradling:
Sheryl Stradling, a talented mixed media abstract artist, was born and raised in Washington State. Throughout her adult life, she resided in Northern California and Arizona before settling in Menifee in 2021. Sheryl's artistic journey began in early childhood, and she further honed her skills by studying art at Western Washington University and Pratt Fine Arts Center in Seattle. Currently, she is not only an accomplished artist but also the author of Faith, Power, Joy: Spiritual Guidance from 5 Generations of Remarkable Women, a captivating multi-generational memoir. Sheryl's artwork has been showcased in various exhibitions, including the metro Seattle and Phoenix areas, as well as locally in Menifee with the Arts Council Menifee and in Temecula with Dorland Mountain Arts Associate Artists. She has also garnered recognition and awards for her work at shows such as the Arizona State Fair. Influenced by nature, universal symbols, architecture, Asian art, and spirituality, Sheryl's art serves as a spiritual expression of the interconnectedness of all life. While now semi-retired, she continues to create in her home studio, alongside her other interests in writing, philosophy and spirituality, martial arts, jogging, gardening, interior decorating, and home remodeling.
Juan Varela:
Juan Varela is a talented mixed media artist originally from Mexico who relocated to Riverside County in 2018. As a self-taught emerging artist, Juan has quickly gained recognition for his unique artistic style. His works have been exhibited in various locations, including Mexico, Los Angeles, Riverside, Hermosa Beach, Napa, Torrance, San Bernardino, and Redlands. Through his art, Juan explores diverse themes and employs a range of mixed media techniques, resulting in captivating and thought-provoking pieces. With his artistic journey still unfolding, Juan is poised to make further contributions to the art world and continue sharing his creative vision with audiences near and far.
Erika Villegas:
Erika Villegas, a passionate artist and dedicated full-time Autism mom, has called Riverside, CA home for the past 16 years. As a versatile creator, she engages in various artistic methods without confining herself to a specific style. One distinctive aspect of her work is the use of bright fluorescent paint, which radiates under UV light. Erika draws inspiration from culture, her son Jayden Villegas, her travel experiences, the beauty of nature, mental health, and the human condition. Her artistic vision revolves around crafting images with vibrant colors that foster positive self-experiences and self-awareness in viewers. Erika has exhibited her artwork in multiple locations, including Riverside, Pomona, Upland, San Bernardino, and Los Angeles. She has also participated in live painting events, showcasing her talent in front of an audience. Erika aspires to be a source of inspiration for her community and to expand the reach of her art into the public sphere.
Wendy Walczak:
Wendy Walczak, an acrylic and mixed media painter, was born and raised in Perris, CA. Her artistic journey began at a young age, discovering her passion for drawing at the age of six and receiving encouragement from her Grandma. It was during her high school years that Wendy found her true calling in painting while taking art classes. Wendy holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications from California State Fullerton and currently works as a Freelance Artist. She has her sights set on pursuing a Master's degree in Therapy to embark on a career as an Art Therapist. In the meantime, Wendy enjoys pushing her artistic boundaries and exploring various painting techniques as she continues to grow as an artist.
Jessie Welch:
Jessie Welch is an oil painter originally from Oregon, but was raised in Los Angeles and now resides in Riverside, California. With a creative journey that began at the age of 15, Jessie is currently pursuing a degree in sociology at California State University Fullerton while actively working as an artist. In 2014, Jessie showcased her artwork at the 15th Annual High School Invitational held at California State University of Northridge's in-house gallery. When not immersed in the world of art, Jessie finds joy in hiking and exploring new culinary experiences. Looking ahead, Jessie's artistic aspirations center around addressing complex social issues through thought-provoking themes, aiming to ignite conversations that inspire unity and drive social change within the public sphere.
Danni Wei:
Danni Wei is a talented illustration artist who was born in Tianjin, China, and grew up in Cerritos, California. With a passion for drawing that has been ingrained since early childhood, Danni currently works as a graphic designer, utilizing her artistic skills in various creative endeavors. Her artistic journey has led her to showcase her works at notable venues such as the Yucaipa Performance Art Center, Phillip Art Gallery, and UCR Arts. Danni's illustrations have also been featured in the published graphic novel titled 'Always' by Sumi Yamamoto, demonstrating her ability to bring stories to life through her captivating artwork.
