Today, we have a studio chat with with Ivan Montoya, a Detroit-based painter & muralist. As a first-generation immigrant (b. Chihuahua, Mexico '95), he creates work connecting the folklore and symbolism of Mesoamerica, Mexico and the United States with his experiences. He is a recipient of the 2022 Emerging Artist Fellowship supported by the Knight Foundation, and has been featured by Spectrum, 3x3 Mag, The Society of Illustrators along with artwork in the Guillermo Del Toro Bleak House Collection. Ivan has worked with Murals In The Market (Eastern Market), Playground Detroit, Coca-Cola, Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, Rocket Central, McKinsey & Co., 1XRUN and the City of Detroit.

His upcoming "Back in 5" Duo show with Michael Polakowski (@michaelpolakowski) opens September 9th at 5-50 Gallery, NYC (@550gallery).

See more of his work on social: @imontoya_ or on his website: ivanmontoya.art for more info about his work and art for sale.

Further Reading:

Detroit Art Review: Ivan Montoya @ Playground Detroit

Shout Arizona: Meet Muralist Ivan Montoya

SEEN Magazine: Ivan Montoya Paints the Immigrant Experience