Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Arsenio was immersed in art and creativity
from a very young age. He painted his first mural in 1998 at eleven years old. After graduating
college in 2010 he dedicated his life to pursuing his art by painting and tattooing full time.
Fifteen years later he has developed his skills to be able to travel around the country and world
painting in communities near and far with large scale murals and exhibitions. His style reflects
his travels and the many communities he has worked in and interacted with over the years. He
wants his art to engage and inspire viewers wherever they may see it. Arsenio believes the
power of public art lies in it’s ability to light the creative spirit in every living being that
encounters it.
Having grown up in predominantly white, middle-class communities, the only connection he
felt keeping him tied to his Mexican roots and traditions was through his grandparents. His art
journey gave him a new path that helped him to discover his cultural roots on a deeper level. It
continues to lead him to explore the rich traditions and history that runs through his veins.
Creating in Chicago with this diverse group of Mexican-American artists has further
strengthened that connection and given Arsenio a more defined pride in being Brown in
America.

You can experience Arsenio’s art and journey at www.abacaart.com.