David Lomaintewa (Hopi-Navajo) started at Albuquerque Job Corps in February, 2010 and earned his GED in March. He graduated from SIATech, the center’s charter school in July, 2010. David, who is 21, has been painting for only the past 18 months.

Previously he did pencil drawings of faces, cars, and landscaping — primarily focusing on old decaying trees. His pencil drawings of faces are so life-like many people believe them to be old photographs. His love for abstract artwork is inspired by the Canadian abstract painter, Osnat Tzadok, and the way she uses color, as well as by what he is feeling and seeing at the time.   

David’s love for woodcraft comes from his ché, Ben (grandfather). When he was younger, they built benches and hideouts. He recently completed an artist’s easel box that completely dismantles like a puzzles and fits in a self-contained box. He is hoping to patent his creation for resale.

David loves to paint large canvas abstracts. A few years back he was employed at the Wild Animal Park in San Diego as a letter brush artist painting people’s names in the shapes of animals.

David has been accepted for spring term at the American Indian Art Institute in Santa Fe, NM, where he will professionally pursue his passion for art. He also aspires to become a custom cabinet maker.