I was born in Tuxpan, Veracruz, Mexico and at 14 moved to the United States with my mother and brother. I have always lived between two worlds -- my connections to Mexico have remained strong, while my love for this country keeps me here.

Recently, my artistic endeavors led me back to Mexico and I was astounded by the use of bright color in all facets of art and craft in the central and southern regions. I realized that not only did I prefer the use of color in my work, but that it was also part of my culture and heritage.

My work, conceptually, can be summed up as an obsession with nature, pattern and color. There is a division between what I consider personal work (paintings), and public work (murals). My public work is more concerned with social issues relating to the human role within nature. These works are elaborate compositions with high attention to detail and the use of light refracting materials to draw the viewer's attention.

My studio work, comprised of easel paintings, furniture, etc., is more focused on materials and rich detailing. The subjects are almost exclusively natural forms, and often portray a single plant or animal. I use glitters, metal leafs and resins to create surfaces that appear to emanate light from within. The subject, however simple, seems to be glorified through the use of these materials and serves a conceptual purpose: to depict my deep appreciation and amazement of nature.

I pay attention to current affairs. I consider myself a positive force in the movement to create a better world. When people look at my work, I want them to see the elaborate detail and material qualities, to allow themselves to relax their vision and actually feel the colors and textures. I want my work to be striking and dazzling, and to create a sense of wonder. I want people to take this feeling and notice the world around them in a different, more positive light. If I can do this, I have succeeded.