Picture
Photo taken by Pablo Castro

Artist Bio

John DeCastro or Jonji, is a Filipino-American visual artist and instructor based in Los Angeles, CA. John is regarded for his range of works on paper, paintings, and drawings. John's work is influenced by childhood experiences and the Filipino-American upbringing. He'll take elements from indigenous or aboriginal art, retro video games, and social subjects such as queerness or otherness. He incorporates techniques like embroidery, paper-making, and recycled collage. Manila Paper, cardboard, construction paper, or handmade recycled paper are some of the mediums he’ll use. His works are recognized for being playful, bright, pastel, or visceral to fantasy or mythological narratives. John believes art should be accessible regardless of class or gender, and encourages techniques on low-budget materials to make art making more efficient in community organized practices. 
John opens access to his work through public art in the Los Angeles County region. Community centers such as Center for the Arts Eagle Rock, and Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA), and The Sunday Jump: Open Mic Series have featured and honored his work. He's the first graduating student to exhibit a public series showcase featuring him and his colleagues work, at Glendale Community College, CA. John is currently a studio apprentice to Los Angeles renowned contemporary artist April Bey.
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​John is related to national Filipino painter, Federico Aguilar Alcuaz.

Artist's John enjoys: Mapplethorpe, Kerry James Marshall, Nica Aquino, Ad Reinhardt, Keith Haring, Ren Hang, Sarah Awad, April Bey, and Federico Aguilar Alcuaz
CONTACT
Pronouns: He / Him
Email: johndecastro.art@gmail.com
Instagram: @Decastronaut
Tiktok: @Decastronaut

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