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A family sitting in the living room watching television in the afterlife.

I was born and raised in South San Francisco, California. After studying commercial art at the College of San Mateo, I worked as a graphic artist for 18 years, enjoying darkroom and prepress work. Afterward, I became a business owner, partnering with my sister Maria, a beautiful, inspiring person, to run our family’s business ⎯ Alfredo’s Market. Growing up in a family of 10, I had an interest in art from a very young age. My father always told me I had a gift, a “Don”, and supported me. On the other hand, my very traditional mother thought I was wasting my time. Once I sold my first painting, her attitude changed. My inspiration comes from the pride I feel toward my parents and family, and my heritage: music, traditions,...