Ernie founded Muralism to be teach young artists with special needs to work, while doing something they loved. For 20+ years he worked in the entertainment industry a an Art Director, Muralist, and Scenic Artist with Disney Imagineering, Universal Studios Creative and Sony Pictures. As the CEO of Merlan Creative, he led design teams making fly-through sets, digital murals and augmented reality. He was the founding Executive Director of Exceptional Minds, a nonprofit visual effects and animation program for young adults with Autism.
Kat combines nine years of arts education leadership with a passion for unlocking the creative potential and professional aspirations of individuals. With a Master of Fine Arts degree from Cranbrook Academy of Art and a background in scenic art, design, and sculpture, Kat's tenure as the former Academic Dean at Exceptional Minds underscores her commitment to building community through the transformative force of the arts. Kat is excited to bring her experience and expertise to serve Muralism's visionary programs, helping to build and fortify a resilient foundation that supports the organization's growth and impact for years to come.
Eddie has always had a passion for speed, music, art and design, never letting his disability slow him down. He has been a senior graphic web designer, video editor and IT specialist for over 15 years. He is a professional DJ, having worked with artists like Paul Oakenfold, Mark Lewis, and Swedish Eagle. Eddie has a Degree in Electronic Engineering and has a passion for fabricating and modifying road racing cars.
Matthew Dominguez is a Chumash / Mexican American artist specializing in acrylic and digital illustrations focused on Indigenous empowerment. As an Indigenous Culture Bearer since 2010, he makes regalia, instruments, and contemporary abalone jewelry. His first mural was painted in 2020 titled "Tongva man", an ode to the original people of LA. Since joining Muralism in August 2021, he has lead the completion of 12 mural projects. He is an experienced special needs aide with a specialization in impacted individuals.
James Hart is a sketch artist and muralist born and raised in West Hills of the San Fernando Valley. James received an Autism diagnosis at 2 years old, which he says gives him a unique perspective on creating art that is out of this world. After graduating from El Camino High School in 2015, he proceeded to teach himself 3D illustration online. A Muralism Crew member for over 3, having painted on more than 20 murals. He has been a featured artist on 5 Muralism Projects. James is currently illustrating his own futuristic graphic novel.
Jacob Riess was born in Lihue, Hawaii, where he was was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. He moved to California at the age of 8. He earned an Associates of Arts degree and Certification in Animation and Game Design from Santa Barbara City College. A graduate of Exceptional Minds with advanced certification in Visual Effects and 3D animation. He already has over 5 years entertainment business experience and continues his education at Animation Mentor. Jake is an avid fan of anime, Dungeons and Dragons, and working out.
Gregory has been a Field Operations Manager in the fire protection industry for 35 years. He was a volunteer track and field athlete manager from 2001 to 2011 at the Special Olympics summer games. He is an active member of the Carpinteria community working with the nonprofit Carpinteria Beautiful, and the Carpinteria Arts Center. He was Co-Director of the "MaskUpCarp" chalk festival held in Carpinteria in 2020. He is the Muralism Project Manager for the Ventura, Santa Barbara region.
Joanna earned her masters in Applied Behavior Analysis at California State University Northridge in 2013. She has since worked with individuals with disabilities in various capacities to improve their quality of life. She is an accomplished artist specializing in the pointillism. Her work can be seen around the Carpinteria area on benches, rocks and is featured on the Carpinteria Boat house. She paints, designs murals and teaches Muralism online classes.
4804 Laurel Canyon Blvd #104
Valley Village,
CA 91607
Nonprofit 501(c)3
EIN: 83-1950137
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(818) 538-4770
info@muralism.org
