Sports has always been my thing, whether it be coaching or in my long career as a journalist. But in drawing or sketches, my six year old grandson is probably more talented. I’ve learned that creativity can cover a broad brush of interests and accomplishments. And for many of us, those “juices” keep flowing 24/7.
A case in point is Andres Valencia, a young man I featured in a post a few months ago on this website. Andres, who just turned 13 this past October, lives to paint. His work at art auctions have sold for as much as $200,000, and those occurred when he was only 10. Every day after school and on most weekends, he perfects his craft on canvas in a studio he set up in the basement of his parents San Diego home. Known in many art circles as “Little Picasso” because of his cubism style, Andres specializes in portrait painting, zeroing in on the face of his subjects in a three dimensional twist. Most of his art has a Latino theme like a matador he calls “Benito,” a Mexican street brawler, Alberto the Clown and a favorite that he calls, “The Mariachi,” all sketched out first using his vivid imagination.
Now I’m pleased to announce the release of Andres Valencia’s first book, titled “Painting Without Rules,” which I must admit is truly amazing. The masterpiece, published by DK Penguin Random House and co-authored by Alexander Rigby, is a beautifully arranged hardcover and conversation topic suitable on anyone’s living room coffee table, at least according to the publisher. That’s cool, but its 272 pages are also a tremendous learning tool for young artists with big dreams. Andres does a really good job of explaining how he got started as a five year old with markers and crayons, and how that advanced to mixing colors of paint on canvas in elaborate fashion. The book contains 100 examples of his work, how ideas pop into his head as a young person, and what inspires him to paint.
What drives Andres and his vivid imagination the most however, is his knowledge of current events and what is happening around the world. He has done paintings that have drawn attention to the Ukraine war with Russia, understanding that “art tells stories.” Valencia’s career continued to soar late last year after appearing on Jimmy Kimmel Live, and he continues to be the youngest artist to operate his own booth at the recent Miami Art Show where sales were brisk.
Success is measured in different ways, but the thing that stands out about Andres Valencia is his focus. Even as a young teen, this kid has goals and knows where he’s going.
“This is what I want to do for the rest of my life,” Andres said a couple of years ago.
It would seem that he is sticking to his plan. Painting Without Rules is scheduled to be on the shelves of top stores like Barnes and Noble on February 18th, and is available for pre-order with a slight discount through Amazon. I highly recommend that you check it out.
