Dangerous lifestyle, stunning murals - about Gustavo Zermeño

By Andres Diaz –

Gustavo Zermeño Jr. was once an avid party goer in his early coming-of-age years but found escape from that dangerous lifestyle by creating stunning murals in the Venice, California, area.

“Drinking can always lead to other things and just bad decisions in general,” he said. “It took me a while to snap out of that, and I feel like art really helped me see something outside of that.”

Near the end of high school and a few years into his early adulthood years, Gustavo would go through the typical cliche teenage experience of exploring alcohol, drug use, and late-night parties. Through self-revelation, he was able to realize the unhealthy and dangerous road that these substances would take for him and his life.

This is when he found the solution to his problems, and, even better, it was something he was passionate about.

Growing up, Gustavo was surrounded by immense and loving support from his parents. His mother, an artist herself, would encourage the young Gustavo to pursue art and to do something with his incredible talent.

Based on the support and encouragement to pursue his art career from his mom, he would go on to try different classes and colleges and find an area in his art where he felt connected.

His dad, although supportive, would also remind him of other higher pay jobs in concern that Gustavo wouldn’t be able to make a living from his art, “I feel like I was very fortunate to grow up in a time where it was easier to make money through your art, I guess, compared to not even that long ago, 10, 20, 30 years ago, where I’m sure muralists weren’t being paid and being able to make a living off their art.”

Having both parents from Mexico, Gustavo had a unique and diverse upbringing.

He recalls his fascination with both Mexican and American lifestyles, being exposed to the vibrant and enthusiastic culture of Mexico while also enjoying the interesting and inclusive culture of America.

Gustavo embraces his heritage and background with open arms and is proud to be part of both worlds-

“My entire life, I think I always loved that experience—that part of my Hispanic side of my family and culture, and then the American side, which is with my family and where I grew up. I think it was a beautiful experience, and I was always proud to be Mexican and, of course, proud to be American.”

From Venice to all over LA County, his murals all portray marvelous displays of celebrities, ranging from Mac Miller and Selena Quintanilla to several basketball stars, including Kobe Bryant. “I’d love to be in some museums,” he says, “especially some of these big LA museums or just any that are well-known.”

He says he loves making these murals not only for his creative outlet but also as a way to give back to the community, and that another big goal of his is to inspire others through them.

When asked if he has any words for aspiring artists and creatives he replied, “Although it sounds cliche, just follow your passion. I feel like everyone knows what they enjoy and they just need to tap into that.”

In recent news, he unveiled a gorgeous and touching mural displayed at the Saint Anne School in Santa Monica, a breathtaking monument that celebrates the rich heritage and cultural background of the local community. It's truly a sight to behold!

About this writer: Andres Diaz wrote this article as an assignment at the Lighthouse Christian Academyin Santa Monica.