I was raised in a military family all over the world, from Hawaii to Japan. I consider Oceanside, CA to be my hometown because I’ve lived there the longest and my parents currently live there. Growing up in that life style forced me to develop very good people skills at an early age. Which helped me to become the artist that I am today. I joined the CHART academy (Specialized art academy) in High School to specialize my teachings toward the arts. This led me to apprenticing at Body Graphics (A tattoo shop in Bonsall CA). I apprenticed there for six months. I learned all the ins and outs of the tattoo shop but I was to young to tattoo anyone. Upon graduating high school I joined the Marine Corps as a Combat illustrator. I didn’t see any combat and I only did a few illustrations. So I was more like a Graphic Designer. At the Combat Visual Information Center (CVIC) we designed posters, pamphlets, logos, motion design, Photography and video. The atmosphere was stressful and very fast. But working in this environment taught me how to lead a creative team and generate a great product on a strict deadline. I worked in this atmosphere for four years. I completed my tattoo apprenticeship under David Victor Arauz, in the Marine Corps. I was Honorably Discharged from the Marine Corps November 12th 2004. Art Center was an amazing experience. I've met and worked with some of the most talented people in the creative industries today. I've sharpened up all of my Photoshop and illustrator skills as well as becoming a Final Cut Pro and After effects user. Out of all the skills that I got out of attending Art Center I believe the most valuable thing that I received from was getting to know the community of Artist and professionals. They have already led me to an internship with Quiksilver in Huntington Beach and opening my own art gallery in Oceanside. It also gave me what I needed to express my self freely without having to worry about what people think they know. Owning the Gallery is like a dream come true. I'm able to work with other artist in the community and show my newest work. Thank you for taking the time to review my Bio, I hope you enjoy the work. If your ever in Sunny Southern California stop by the gallery and say Hello. 212-C N. Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054.
Joey