Erik Gonzalez has become well known in the community for his spray paint and graffiti art that he is making mainstream with his Urbanist Collective.
The Collective puts on art demonstrations at the Old Lumber Yard in Visalia, and Erik works with many youth groups, focusing on education and showing youth they can excel with their creative skills.
He also has a series of spiritual works he calls “Entre Gravedad” (Between Gravity) that he will display at the Brandon-Mitchell Gallery in March and April.
The gallery will host artist receptions during the Downtown Visalia First Friday art walks from 5-8pm on March 3 and April 7.
Gonzalez’ show touches on spirituality from his viewpoint—using spray paint in a series using the shapes of triangles and squares.
“We are a medium ourselves between a higher power and what keeps us grounded to the earth,” he said. “When I’m painting, that’s my meditative state—between gravity.”
He gives this example.
“I recently started skateboarding again. I had forgotten how good it feels when you’re defying gravity—doing acrobatic moves in the air. That feeling is almost indescribable.”
Erik’s work has become so popular that he now works full time doing commercial projects, work for non profits, and teaching youth.
He was hired by Levi Strauss to paint a backdrop on denim canvas for an MTV benefit concert on AIDS awareness.
He was in L.A. working on a beautification project and introducing neighborhood murals.
“I’m always surprised that they want the real graffiti style instead of more traditional lettering,” he said.
Currently Erik is working with students on a large mural project for the California Rural Legal Assistance in Madera using a super hero theme to show social justice.
On March 18, he is organizing the second Queens of Style at the Lumber Yard, bringing international female graffiti artists in to help women promote their art.
His show promises some surprises in the way he connects his art. Don’t miss meeting this inspiring local artist.