Meet Artist Oscar
Oscar Jaíro Loeza was born in Michoacán, Mexico on September 17, 1989. At just 3 months old, he crossed the Mexico-United States border with his parents and two sisters. Oscar spent most of his childhood living in Orange County, where he was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy at 3 years old after having experienced knee pain and limping. His mother began using drawings and doodles to distract him from his disability, propelling his art journey. Because Muscular Dystrophy affects every muscle in the body, weakening it, the disease also began to compromise Oscar’s respiratory system.
Oscar’s diagnosis limited his activity that other children his age regularly experienced. When Oscar became a teenager, he turned to alcohol as a form of rebellion and escapism. At the same time, his damaged muscles became progressively weaker, eventually requiring him to undergo back surgery and needing a wheelchair to become mobile.
Despite his rebellious behavior and lifelong disease, Oscar devoted time and energy to indulge in his true passion: art. Over the last three decades, Oscar has explored various art styles from drawing to painting. His work is a form of expressionism with a hint of realism. He paints from the soul and dwells in what he feels until the piece is finished.
Oscar follows the philosophy that “Nothing is perfect, we go about life trying to perfect ourselves so much that we forget the art in everyday life. Art is what you make it and what speaks out of you”. While Oscar paints, he keeps others in mind who do not have the ability or resources to create art. Keeping his own mental and physical struggles in mind, Oscar creates images generated by his thoughts.
A statement from Oscar…
At a young age, my mom liked to draw animals and random doodles to keep my mind off of the hardships that came with my disability.
Once I started drawing on my own, it brought back painful memories of seeing my mom sad because I, her son, was suffering from Muscular Dystrophy, something she could not control. These painful memories haunted me for years.
In 2022, at the age of thirty-three, I was finally able to paint again. This didn’t come without fear of those dark memories returning.
However, painting, the very thing that has brought forth some of my toughest demons, is also something that can exorcise those demons. It’s all about perception and how you view things in life.
Artist Interview – Oscar
We have the privilege of interviewing a remarkable acrylic painter, Oscar, whose talent knows no bounds. Despite the challenges life has thrown at him, Oscar creates awe-inspiring artwork that leave a lasting impression. His paintings are a testament to the power of human resilience and the unyielding spirit of creativity. During our conversation, he shares about his art practice and what motivates him. Oscar’s work not only speaks volumes about his extraordinary skill but also serves as an example of how passion and determination can transcend any obstacle.
“What was your most challenging piece and why?”
My most challenging pieces are those with a large canvas. Anything bigger than 24×24 is challenging for me because of my disability which causes limited mobility. Regardless of my limitations, I enjoy taking on any CHALLENGE!
“How do you align with The Art Spread’s mission of inclusion and awareness?”
Because of my physical disability, I feel like I align well with The Art Spread’s mission of inclusion. With determination and execution, I am able to paint what is in my head and encourage others regardless of their disabilities or limitations.
“Who is your favorite iconic artist?”
My favorite iconic artist is Michelangelo Merisi de Caravaggio, known simply as Caravaggio. His art work is so dark, yet masters lighting.
“Who is your biggest fan and supporter?”
My biggest fan/supporter would have to be my oldest sister, Araceli. She is an instrumental tool in the process, with her assistance I am able to create daily. She assists with having my supplies within my reach, as well as constantly thinking of ways to adapt my setup for my mobility needs.
“How can our audience keep in touch with you?”
You can keep in touch with me via social media including Instagram and tik Tok under username LOEZA_ARTS
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Oscar was able to paint a beautiful portrait of my mother who passed away from brain cancer Oct 2014
The painting he was originally afraid to do because of what it meant & stood for but he faced those fears head on and because of that I have a forever meaningful painting that i will always hold near to my heart
Oscar, you have incredible talent!! I really enjoyed reading about your art journey. Thank you for being transparent and honest about the truth behind your work and message.
Fantastic work!
I love his pieces and his story. I am inspired by his creativity and talent.