Xolo, 2019

Gustavo Rimada  

"Born in Torreon, Mexico in 1981, I am the youngest of four. My memories of Mexico are few but of those I do remember I was constantly drawing. Whenever, wherever. My mother reminded me of my gift all the time as I grew up. Always encouraging me and enabling me. She new before I did what my true passion would become.

By the age of seven my parents decided to move to California. Leaving behind there, what I call "Cosby Show" life. My father was a lawyer, my mother a doctor. Upon arriving, there employment changed drastically. Now they were washing dishes and housekeeping. Our lives had been flipped upside down. They were tough times but with that I saw the strength my parents put up and it is something I keep close to me.

My parents chose Indio, California to raise us. Throughout school I took art classes, it came easy. After graduating from high school, I decided (with the help of family) to move to Santa Monica and attend The Art Institute where I chose to study Computer Animation. While in school 9/11 hit. After that happened it left me feeling inadequate in my life. I needed something more, my heart wasn't in animation nor school anymore. While walking past an Army Recruitment Office and without any hesitation I went in and sat down. A few hours later I was signed up and to be leaving for boot camp within weeks. I spent 3 years in the Army. Within that time art took a backseat. Dabbling here and there but nothing serious. It really wasn't until about 2 years after the Army that I was given two huge pieces of MDO board to paint on. It was truly the beginning of my journey back into art.

My heart and hand took over. I sketched, I painted till late in the night. Painting on everything from shoes to bags. Within a month I filled a sketchbook full of Elvgren pinups and Olivia paintings. Soon after all that work, I started working at a tattoo shop. The tattoo world inspired my artwork a whole new life and passion. The knowledge and history of the industry was incredible to me.

I have now become what you might say, a workaholic and honestly I can say I love what I do. Wouldn't trade it for anything. I truly eat, breath and sleep art. I work hard and will continue to do so whatever it may be.

Last but not least I am a devoted father, husband and family man but non the less a passionate artist.