Just as big-picture thinkers are as crucial as detail-oriented minds, art generalists are as essential as the artists of a single medium. It all depends on the specific role being fulfilled. In regards to the position of program assistant at MACLA’s DMC Studio—a free arts education program mentoring youth in a range of disciplines—Nicholas Jimenez’s eager appreciation of many mediums is an asset. Jimenez’s wide-ranging creative palate spills over into his endeavors in video editing, photography, and illustration, as well as his pursuit of a BS in Industrial Design at San Jose State University—a study allowing him to combine all three aforementioned disciplines. It even spreads to his YouTube channel, SJCA Style & Culture with Nicholas Jimenez, a vlog that tracks his adventures around San Jose and his interviews with those who are developing our city’s culture from a variety of vocations.

“Being fully transparent—my dad was incarcerated. During his incarceration, he would write letters and send drawings to my mom. At the time, I didn’t really understand that. I just knew he was an artist. He drew and he painted. I saw more of that. I want people to know I didn’t have this beautiful upbringing, but I saw a beautiful opportunity in the talent that my dad had as a first-generation Mexican American (Chicano) living in San Jose. Even though I had that looming over my head, it didn’t necessarily mean that I was destined for that, but rather, I actually got a great talent out of that. I saw the creativity and the value.”

Written by Johanna Hickle