Long before AP courses or years of private drawing lessons, Miguel was a kid drawing just for fun, but his drawings were not like other kids’; they were extraordinary. Little did he know that those drawings would develop into a true talent for art that would shape his future and change his life.
“I realized that Miguel was very talented from a young age when he would pick up a pencil and some paper and start drawing cartoons on his own.”(translated) said Victoria Hoyos, Miguel´s mother, who has witnessed all of his artistic journey. Miguel’s mom noticed his spark as an artist and inspired him to pursue his talent. She was the one who encouraged him to begin art classes. “It was during the pandemic that the opportunity arose to take some online drawing classes. I encouraged him to join another group of kids. He said yes. He started out very motivated and disciplined, and after two months, he was still going strong. He was the only child who stuck with the classes, and since then, he’s been learning one-on-one with his teacher for six years.“ (translated) claimed Victoria.
His art classes taught him remarkable discipline towards drawing; this drove him to take AP art courses. He chose AP drawing so he could strengthen his ability to illustrate realistically. “Miguel was outstanding during the AP course; the progress he made in his work and his technical mastery reflect his love of drawing,” (translated) stated Gloria Velez, his AP drawing teacher. Miguel poured his heart into every assignment, which helped him improve dramatically during the course. The combination of AP art courses, his particular art tutoring, and exceptional commitment took him to the next level. “One of the things that has helped him the most is having a private tutor who focuses on teaching him specific technical aspects, such as the use of light and shadow, as well as his discipline and perseverance in his projects”(translated), Gloria said.
Art is a part of who Miguel is. “Art for me is the ultimate expression of a human being, where everyone can express their experiences and perspectives and where it is possible to share every idea without a single word. “explained Miguel Vallejo. Drawing brings him a deep sense of fulfillment; it makes him want to improve every day. “For Miguel, art is a time when he connects with himself and his dreams; it’s his own space. He spends hours creating art, drawing while immersed in the music and artists who inspire him.” (translated) claimed Victoria.
Drawing connects Miguel to what he loves the most: urban music, keeping him inspired to give his all in every masterpiece. “I am focusing on the urban side of art, for example, drawing my favorite artists that I listen to every day. This influences my process by helping my networking skills because the ultimate goal is to be working with them, and art can make that bridge possible “ shared Miguel. Miguel’s devotion to art is magnificent. He wants to transform his passion into a greater pursuit: his career. “I want to study architecture, and my main goal is to create urban symbols worthy of planning a whole trip around them.“ explained Miguel.
In Miguel’s artistic journey, he has progressed so much. I’m sure that he has a bright future ahead of him. “I think Miguel will become a great artist and establish himself as a master illustrator,” expressed Gloria after seeing how much he grew as an artist in just one year.
Miguel sets an example in our community; he has shown us that we can dedicate ourselves to what we love the most and that we should chase our dreams. He has taught us that we can thrive in our passions. Well, sometimes life can get difficult, but we can always find joy in what we love to do the most.