JAE VALDEZ

I am a multimedia artist from Dallas, Texas, who has found a vibrant canvas for my creative journey in the city of Chicago. My artistic expressions predominantly revolve around the intricate exploration of themes related to self-perception, interpersonal dynamics, and the ever-evolving tapestry of human connection. 

My work bears the unmistakable imprint of punk aesthetics, a testament to being unapologetically yourself. I channel this energy into various artistic mediums, including drawing, painting, printmaking, installation art, and the world of graffiti and street art. My favorite medium to work in is drawing as I enjoy implementing gritty stylistic choices that are influenced by my background in graffiti and other various street art mediums. I typically work in black and white color schemes, with pops of red, yellow, and blue appearing occasionally throughout my body of work. My pieces are usually of a large scale roughly from 4x4 – 6x6 feet. My subject matter is usually dark with an interest in the use of skeletons, demons and a warped view of myself. 

Beyond my individual creations, my true passion lies in fostering a sense of community among artists. I believe in the transformative power of collaboration and mutual support. It's this deep-seated belief that led me to establish Studio FreeLove, an artist collective with a singular mission - to democratize art in the bustling heart of Chicago. 

Through Studio FreeLove, I aim to break down the barriers that often limit access to the world of art. I am committed to creating an inclusive and accessible space where artists of all backgrounds can thrive, collaborate, and share their unique voices with the world. In this mission, my artistry has been imbued with a renewed sense of purpose.