You told us that you did not have an air compressor so what did you use?
When I got my first airbrush, my problem was getting my air source. I was a 13-year-old kid and I couldn't afford to buy a can of air that cost 10 dollars at the time so I used an old tire that I had in my backyard. I had to fill the tire about 10 times a day, back and forth to the gas station. Eventually, I was able to save enough money to buy a small compressor-it was a very special day for me. I was finally able to finish a project in one day.
In the beginning of your career, what artist(s) did you admire and why?
The artists I admired were Frank Frazetta, Boris Vallejo and Simon Bisley just to name a few.
How about now?
After going to school and learning more about the artists, I would say Salvador Dali and still, Frank Frazetta and Sorayama.
How did you get into airbrushing cars?
I started with model cars, then T-shirts and leather jackets, wall murals and eventually, automotive. Whatever they asked me to paint it didn't matter to me. My work started getting recognized at car shows and it took off from there.
Did you go to school to learn about art?
Yes, I did. After so many years and traveling in South America I decided to get formal training at East Los Angeles College. It was the best investment of my life. I also went to Los Angeles Trade Tech College to study sign graphics. By going to these colleges my art has improved drastically and so has my income.
What type of community activities are you involved in?I try to stay involved with the community to help as much as I can-from helping to feed the homeless with SASA (Students Against Substance Abuse at E.L.A.C.) to doing volunteer work for the community.
Why do you do them?
Well, when I was growing up in the neighborhood, I got a lot of help from people I didn't know so it's my way of giving back to people that need help. I want to set an example that by working together we can make a difference.
Tell us about the Latin Art Show?
The Latin Art Show began as a regular art show with a few cars and a few artists. Next thing you know, more artists started participating in it and it snowballed to about fifty or more artists wanting to participate. Unfortunately, I had to tell them there was no more room and to wait until next year. I hate the fact that I had to turn them down, but it was the space and the money that would then become an issue. It is not an easy thing putting an art show together with a small budget. I'm trying to work with the city to help me with this problem, but the city is doing everything they can do to help. I know things will get better by working with sponsors so that everyone can participate and make it into a big art festival.
What do you recommend for someone starting to airbrush?
Be patient and take your time. Try to get as much information about airbrushing as you can. There are also video how-tos that are available on airbrushing. You can check with your local paint store or look it up on the web. Last but not least, take art classes-painting, drawing, and draw everyday if you can.
Where can people see more of your work?
At myspace.com/airbrushrick, or by email,
Any last words?
Chase your dreams, think positive and stay focused because you only live once. Like the old saying: "The saddest thing in life is wasted talent."