BIO
CJ Conde (b. 1997), is a Mexican-American artist, muralist, and filmmaker deeply rooted in Southeast Los Angeles. Born in Huntington Park and raised in Cudahy, CJ proudly calls South East LA his home and community. He currently resides in Koreatown and holds a B.A. in Studio Art from UC Irvine, earned in 2019
CJ states that his artistic journey is fueled by an insatiable curiosity and a quest for spiritual development. For him, creating art is a gateway into his subconscious, a lifelong journey of exploration. Diversifying his creative outlets, CJ builds immersive worlds and tells compelling stories, reflecting his personal experiences and the rich essence of Latinidad.
CJ's formal art education at UC Irvine emphasized a theoretical approach, focusing on efficient work ethic and deep conceptual understanding. His debut art show was at UCI’s University Art Gallery in 2019 as part of the school’s annual juried exhibition. After graduation, CJ immersed himself in community-driven local exhibits, gaining a deeper understanding of community art beyond the lens and restrictions of formal galleries. This community connection is a cornerstone of CJ's practice, exemplified by his involvement in creating two murals for his hometown of Cudahy. These murals were part of a city-wide project that engaged elementary students and community members, highlighting his commitment to collaborative, grassroots art.
In 2023, CJ’s work in animation and video editing earned him a five-video contract with The LA Times' newest media company, DeLos. In this project, CJ interviews and illustrates individuals on the street, prompting them to answer questions about art and its intersection with Latinidad. This innovative series has further solidified his role as a storyteller and cultural commentator.
Over the past two years, CJ has expanded his presence in the formal gallery scene, showcasing his work at Stay Gallery, South Gate Museum and Art Gallery, and Compton Art and History Museum.
CJ Conde's journey is a testament to the belief that art transcends boundaries and unites communities. His work not only reflects his personal and cultural identity but also serves as a powerful vehicle for social commentary and communal connection.