BIOGRAPHY 

 Yeltsin Penado (b. 1990) is first generation Salvadorian that lives and works in Los Angeles, California, USA. He works in a variety if mediums including: Painting, Sculpture, Digital Media, Film, and Writing. He presents his artwork in multiple formats - ephemeral installations, written works, performances, online virtual spaces, and site-specific locations. Yeltsin graduated with honors in Painting and Community Arts Engagement from Otis College of Art and Design in 2018. Yeltsin currently works as the School Programs Manager at reDiscover Center, implementing STEAM programs across Los Angeles. He has had the opportunity to deliver maker-education workshops at schools, and teach art and technology to youth from South LA.  Yeltsin's hobbies include Modding PC games, street photography, woodworking, and exploring the city. 

ARTIST STATEMENT

As an artist working at the intersection of tradition and innovation, I explore a diverse range of media to craft immersive experiences that resonate with viewers. Drawing inspiration from the surrealist painting movement and its direct link to the emergence of psychology, I delve into the nuances of the human condition. My creative journey is a fusion of fringe and emerging technology, where I harness animation and film techniques alongside the meticulous creation of my own pigments for painting on handmade surfaces.

My artistic process is a tactile exploration that involves working with fabric dyes on raw fabrics, forming the foundation for the rich narratives that unfold within my creations. The canvas becomes a dynamic backdrop, allowing me to draw intricate images with ink, seamlessly merging the fluidity of ink and water to produce washed paintings. This technique, influenced by popular culture motifs, results in a visual language that speaks to the contemporary while retaining a surrealist undertone.

Beyond the canvas, I extend my practice to installations, seamlessly blending different media to create immersive environments. These installations serve as a gateway for viewers to connect with narratives rooted in the Salvadorian diaspora, offering a visceral and emotive experience. Through my work, I aim to forge a profound connection between the observer and the stories embedded in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Salvadorian heritage.

In essence, my art is a reflection of my commitment to pushing artistic boundaries, utilizing both ancient and cutting-edge techniques to weave narratives that transcend time and cultural borders. Join me on this exploration where tradition meets technology, and where the narratives of the Salvadorian diaspora come to life through the vibrant interplay of color, form, and emotion.

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

Yeltsin has worked in STEAM education for for +5 years teaching and leading workshops. He attends STEAM education workshops, professional development sessions, symposiums, and lectures.