Miguel Machuca

  First Time Art Party Participant

Orchestrated Religion

Artist’s email

artemachuca33@gmail.com

Artist’s Statement

My influences are eclectic; ancient cultures, elders’ wisdom and mysticism combined with elements and ideas embodied in global street culture. It is the voice of the “old soul” speaking with the language and color of today. My visions are rooted in a natural ability to manipulate shape and color, creating depth in the images that fascinate me and viewers alike. I am honest in sharing my personal views of the world around me. In earlier times, I would create characters that embodied the attitude of youth. It was something that my friends could relate to. I have established myself as a seasoned painter, visual artist, technician, and muralist. My techniques are self-taught, as I graduated from crayons to pencils and pens, airbrush to spray paint, and finally to paintbrushes and now charcoal. My experiences are illustrated into ideas that take shape and color, sometimes in abstract form. My presence is always apparent, although I reveal an aspect of myself that is different from that in the last piece completed. My visions are constantly changing, and now that I have survived my battle with cancer, my work is just beginning.

About the Artist

My name is Miguel Machuca, also known as ArteMachuca33.  I am 38 years old, and I was born and raised in Guadalajara Jalisco, Mexico. After the tragic death of my father, I came to the United States in 1987 when I was just 10 years old. Ever since I can remember, I have always been an artist.  I have always had an interest in colors, interesting concepts and exaggerated ideas and characters.  I started volunteering with a non-profit organization called Catalyst For Youth and was also the core director for Heart of Chaos, building programs for kids at risk. I also work with the Evergreen School District, teaching ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis) to kids diagnosed with autism. I have been in this particular field for 20 years and counting. I am an active artist in San Jose, contributing to the ever-growing art scene. I get to collaborate with many upcoming artists as well as established artists from local galleries, charity benefits, local festivals, and also the Triton Museum of Art in Santa Clara.