Frank Mendoza in his studio

 Frank Mendoza, a seasoned artist hailing from Sacramento, has been passionately creating artwork since his youth. His artistic journey began to flourish during his high school years, where he developed a profound interest in drawing. Over time, he has explored various mediums such as pencils, chalk pastels, and acrylic, but his most recent discovery, clay, has become his undeniable passion.

Mendoza's artwork serves as a profound reflection of himself, encapsulating his cultural identity, ancestral history, and his boundless creativity. As a Mexican-American artist, he draws inspiration from the rich heritage and vibrant traditions that shaped his upbringing. Growing up in the 70s, Mendoza was influenced by the teachings of local Chicano Artists who imparted their knowledge while he attended Sacramento State University.

The core of Mendoza's artistic expression lies in the exploration of his indigenous roots, with a particular focus on the diverse communities of Mexico and South America, such as the Aztec, Mayan, Olmec, and Incas. He has always felt a deep connection to his cultural heritage and finds great pride in interpreting the stories of brotherhood, war, life, and death through his artwork. Influential Mexican artists like Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, Jose G. Posada, and Jose Clemente Orozco have also played a significant role in shaping Mendoza's artistic vision.

While Mendoza's primary focus lies within his culture and history, he remains versatile in his artistic endeavors, constantly pushing the boundaries of his comfort zone. As a retired peace officer, he now dedicates his time and energy to furthering his art education at Cosumnes River College under the guidance of Professor Yoshio Taylor. Mendoza eagerly looks forward to exploring the intricacies of various clay media, currently immersing himself in the artistry of wheel throwing.

Frank Mendoza's artistic journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication, his profound cultural connection, and his ceaseless desire to push the boundaries of his creativity. Through his artwork, he continues to captivate audiences with his ability to translate history, stories, and emotions into tangible and evocative pieces of art.