Not all of Eric’s work has the same jarring juxtaposition but there is an underlying element of playfulness, hope and acknowledgment of the darker side of life. In Release (Oil on canvas, 48″x24″, 2002), a boy holds a glass jar, seemingly entranced by it’s shape. Transcending reality, three birds escape from it’s opening, metaphorically depicting the mental freedom that only a child can have. This purity of imagination is something Eric feels we lose as adults but is something he can regain in his artwork.

Since graduating from the Academy of Art College in 2003, Eric is well on his way to becoming an established artist. He has exhibited in over 20 galleries on the West Coast and has been featured in publications such as MESH and The Freedom Book Project. Look for him in a future issue of CozyTone and Royal Magazine and check out his work on the cover of The Co-Deez latest single “Firm Stance” out now on Hella Records. Despite the fact that his work has drawn recent attention, he feels things have just begun. “I’m not only interested in painting, I wanna get my hands on other mediums like film, design, whatever. That’s what I want to do in life, really.”

It is now 2:35 and the door bell interrupts our conversation with buzzing urgency. It’s the record label manager coming by to drop off a check and pick up the still wet painting. After some pats on the back and thanks, we all head down the front steps and part when we hit the sidewalk. Eric’s gone to buy canvas, stretcher bars and chicken (he’s making Chicken Adobo for him and his roommates tonight.