Ask an artist what inspires them, and the answer you get will be as varied as the artwork itself. Ask A. Michel Velazquez, and he will tell you about the beauty and strength of his incredible wife, Nicole Gonzales Not only did Nicole help to discover Michel and launch his career, her love and support is the inspiration for his one of a kind artwork. Michel knows, and is happy to tell anyone who will listen, that she is his greatest gift! (Well, her and his three children: Nikolas, Milan, and Gia Velazquez!)
A. Michel Velazquez is a local, Denver-based artist whose work can be found throughout the city and across the U.S. Velazquez was raised in Jalisco, Mexico where his desire to create and his love of art began. Michel credits his dad, Diego Velazquez Aguirre, with being critical in his development as an artist. He can remember being a young boy and watching his dad, who still lives and works in Jalisco, create his artwork. Diego shared his passion with his son whose desire to make art, from whatever material he could find, still flows through his veins today. You could say that Michel was destined to become the artist he is today; it's in his blood. Not that it has been an easy path to follow. Michel recalls working in a warehouse when he had first come to America and couldn’t afford expensive canvas to paint on, so he would use the discarded cardboard and other materials to make his artwork. His creativity would not be extinguished. Michel credits his friend, Enrique Gonzalez, along with his wife, Nicole, for discovering his talent and propelling his career into what it is today.
Michel’s distinctive and unique style has developed over the years and now “incorporates color, shapes, and layers to create the visually captivating work” that he showcases all over Colorado and throughout the country. Michel’s work takes a variety of forms and is accessible to all art lovers. His gallery collections, Colrz and Italia, both depict women of strength, beauty, form, and emotions. Michel’s admiration of the female form, his respect for women, and his love for his wife are evident in every piece. Michel also puts his artwork on shirts, hoodies, and accessories. His pieces can also be found as prints as well.
Where can you find Michel and his breathtaking work? Michel opened his new store in The Source Hotel’s Market Hall (3330 Brighton Blvd in Denver) on November 1st. He is beyond excited to have this permanent space where Denverites can come and view his work and experience his passion. You can also find Michel and his work on The Diary Block in a variety of locations. Michel is also going to be exhibiting his work at Spectrum Miami, a curated art fair taking place amidst Miami Art Week from December 6th through December 11th.
If you are looking for the best holiday gift, one that will awe and inspire, one that will last a lifetime, you need a piece of Michel Velazquez’s artwork. Find Michel at shop.velart.co and @velart_denver_co.
