Hello!  My name is Derek Nochefranca (he/him), and I am a Pacific Islander artist based out of Ohio.  Art was always a natural outlet of expression since childhood, to further immerse myself in pop culture.  What was once innocence would evolve into a natural dialogue with myself to make sense of my world growing up.  I would graduate from CSUS with a BA in Studio Art: Painting and Drawing, and then pursue my passion ever since.  From childhood to now, I have been heavily influenced by animation, music, film, and art overall.

 

  Whether it be traditional or digital techniques, I love to continually challenge my storytelling with the intent of spreading reflection, inspiration, and joy throughout the world.  My drawings are often authentic to a feeling, conveyed in expressive, gestural, and vivid color.  My style can range from graphic/stylistic characters to gestural/dynamic images tucked away in the darkest shadows of our psyche.  My work aims to heal through joyful innocence or dark, introspective focus.

 

  Art, for me, is life.  It's storytelling and self-expression.  Art is authenticity that can spark inspiration and connection.  Art is a lifeline.  Thank you to all the creators who have shaped me, influenced me, and continually inspired me to leave my own illuminating mark in the dark.