The child shared his gift: Born in Guatemala, Manuel Barillas found an appreciation for art at a very young age, with a special interest in drawing. As a young boy he devoted his time and energy practicing art with enthusiasm and joy. His grade school teachers saw the talent he possessed and counted on him for sketching maps and graphics in anatomy class to create visuals for his classmates to see on the chalk board.

The young man developed his skills: At 16 he began his formal art studies at the National Art School in Guatemala. His main interest has always been portraits and figures, but he also enjoys plein air painting. He was a prominent art student who was many times awarded for his work. His first job allowed him to practice his artistic skills as he created designs for various fabrics including tablecloths and draperies. Then he worked for an advertising agency where he created illustrations for marketing.

The artist mastered his genre: Manuel moved to California in his early twenties. Here he began to work as a sign painter, expanding his artistic abilities and mastering hand lettering and graphics. Always wanting to further his art skills, he began taking classes at Trade Tech College. His talent developed under the instruction of Mario Rueda. Another important influence in his artistic development is Richard Shelton, who taught him art history and a variety of techniques.

Today's artist still shares his gift:

• Currently Manuel produces fine portraits on commission for a growing list of admiring clients.
• In addition, he still provides expert services in lettering and faux finish decorations.
• He also enjoys teaching art classes on the weekends where he shares with others the knowledge he has acquired over the years.
• Manuel has been a member of the South Gate and Paramount Art Associations for over 15 years. In addition, Manuel is a member of and instructor for the Monrovia Association of Fine Arts.

Contact Manuel at (562) 714-8174 or manuelbarillas@hotmail.com