Behind the Creative I.


Isiah Arvizu’s artistic journey is a profound testament to the transformative power of creativity, born from the depths of his soul and nurtured through a lifetime of trials and triumphs. From the tender age when Lane Smith’s enchanting illustrations first captured his imagination, Isiah found solace and inspiration in the world of art—a realm where his emotions and thoughts found expression, and his spirit soared free.

Through the pages of “The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs!” and “The Stinky Cheese Man, and Other Fairly Stupid Tales,” Isiah’s creative spark ignited, fueled by the boundless possibilities of storytelling and visual expression. Little did he know that his artistic endeavors would become a lifeline—a sanctuary where he could lose himself for hours, blending intricate ideas with raw emotions, imagination, and life experiences.

Self-taught and driven by an insatiable curiosity, Isiah explored myriad artistic mediums—from writing and sculpting to painting, illustrating, and music—each offering a canvas for his unique vision and boundless creativity. Despite facing financial hardships and societal barriers, Isiah’s unwavering determination propelled him forward, defying the odds stacked against him.

Volunteering for the United States Army during the Iraq war was not just a duty for Isiah—it was a profound calling, a testament to his courage and commitment to serving others. As a Combat Engineer, he faced the horrors of war head-on, confronting hidden explosives and risking his life on countless occasions for the greater good.

But it was during these darkest hours that Isiah’s artistic spirit shone brightest, a beacon of hope amidst the chaos of conflict. His experiences in the military—blown up by IEDs and EFPs more times than he could count—shaped him in ways he could never have imagined, instilling in him a resilience and strength that would carry him through the toughest of times.

As his military career drew to a close, Isiah returned to his true passion: art. Confronting internal demons and past traumas, he delved deeper into his creative pursuits, finding solace in the melodies of his viola and the vivid colors of his oil paintings. Through his art, Isiah discovered a language of healing—a way to transcend pain and find beauty in the brokenness of life.

Today, as he nears the completion of his studies at UCCS, Isiah’s journey is far from over. With a heart full of hope and a spirit forged in adversity, he looks towards the future with optimism, eager to use his knowledge and talents to make a difference in the lives of others. His story is one of resilience, redemption, and the enduring power of art to heal, inspire, and transform.


A Creative Entrepreneur:

Isiah’s commitment to excellence shines through in his meticulous use of Winsor and Newton Oil Colours and Gamblin Ivory, blending only the three primary colors to create a rich and dynamic palette. With a profound understanding of high and low-key values, Isiah’s artwork illuminates with a depth that captivates the senses, while his masterful use of black and white pigments enhances gradation, tones, and shadows, bringing his compositions to life with unparalleled transparency and texture.

Isiah’s unique approach to art has garnered widespread recognition and acclaim. From adorning T-shirts and Army Achievement coins for the United States Army to gracing the walls of prestigious exhibitions like the “Wild and Wonderful-Menagerie” in Washington, North Carolina, his work has captivated audiences across the nation. With nods from institutions like the Museum of Modern Arts (MoMA) and accolades such as the 2nd Place win in the Pleasure as Art Competition for sculpting and design, Isiah’s impact on the art world is undeniable.

Each piece in Isiah’s collection is a testament to his singular vision and unparalleled skill, making them sought-after treasures for collectors who appreciate artistry that pushes the boundaries of the imagination. Experience the surreal and truly one-of-a-kind world of Isiah Arvizu’s artwork, where every creation tells a story and invites you to explore the depths of the human experience.


All Rights are Reserved by the artist. © 2018-2024, Isiah A. Arvizu