Jose F. Zavala, (Midwest Urban-American Artist) was born on December 18, 1971 in the small dusty border town of Roma Texas (STAR COUNTY). Shortly after his birth, his family would head north in search of work and a better life. The Zavalas' would eventually end up in Pilsen, a chicago lower west side neighborhood. In Pilsen, Jose would grow up with little direction and lack of positive influence.
In the late 80's and early 90's, Jose would try to use his art to escape his violent neighborhood, but found no success. His teenage years would not only prove to be trying but almost fatal on two occasions. With so much turmoil in his life, Jose focused on survival and would put his true artistic talent on the back burner for years to come.
With minimal education and no formal training in art, Jose was at a loss. His mother was a very hard working, religious woman that spoke no english. His father was an alcoholic that would never be emotionally available, so Jose, would then substitute his family with Chicago street gangs. This road only lead him to a life of drugs, which lead to jail and then even homeless sleeping in Douglas Park public restrooms.
Never giving up on Jose, was the love and determination of then girlfriend, now wife Rachel. She would help propel him to new beginnings. Jose made mental notes of his experiences throughout the years, and now expresses them on canvas for us in ways that only he can do. Color, color and more color is his trademark. Ask him what is his one style, impressionism? cubism? realism? ..he answers " Color thats it , i have no style!
"If i can get everyone to focus on my bright colors no one will see my dark past!!!
Now focusing totally on art and family, Jose and Rachel reside in the Southwest suburbs of Chicago, where he continues to paint. Hoping to one day open DaViNoGalleries; named after the first two letters in each of his children's names, Daniel, Vivian and Noah. Jose is now realizing , a lifelong dream is finally in sight, and all his faith, hard work and dedication are finally paying off.
Jose Zavala has become an outstanding member of his community and uses his energies to create positive changes in the lives of youth and adults alike. His pieces express "pride in heritage" as well as awareness to many concerns in many Chicagoland communities and abroad.
Jose Zavala is proud member of -
Elmhurst Arts Guild,
-Addison Arts Guild,
He is an inspiring artist and philanthropist that enjoys giving to such organizations as:
-Chicago Teen Challenge
http://www.teenchallengeil.com/chicago/new/videos/
-Buy Art Not People (BANP)
http://www.buyartnotpeople.org
-Love 164,
-Red Dress charities
-Bethel Temple A/G
-Good Shepard Church
These colorful, vibrant never before seen pieces were hidden away until recently discovered by Adrienne A. Jaroscak and niece Audrey DeFrancesco. Thanks to Annette Leiber for insisting on a one man show. These pieces are a beginning to a long foreseen art career that will bring you stories of life, joy, love, loss and pain .
The Art and life of Jose Zavala are finally exposed for the world to see!
this website is still under construction.please send opinions or comments .all are welcome
contact info:
Jose F. Zavala (630) 656-7450 mailto:[email protected]
follow me on twitter @joezilla33
follow me on twitter @joezilla33