For those of you who don't already know, I grew up in San Antonio -- a cultural melting pot in South-Central Texas. Tacos, barbecue and rednecks are usually what first come to peoples' minds when I mention I'm from Texas, and many tend to question why I don't have a Southern accent. I, however, contend that there is much more to San Antonio and the state of Texas, and attribute much of my artistic motivation to the city I call home.

I was brought up in schools in which art was a significant part of the curriculum. But even as a kid, I was inspired by the professional artists that contributed to the colorful culture of San Antonio, as most of my field trips taught me about the history of the city. Some often joke that recess was their favorite subject in school. Though art wasn't always my most favorite subject, it was my constant. I took beginner classes as a youngster, was attracted to clay-making and painting as summer camp options, and continued sketching and drawing in high school.

When I got hold of a film camera, my artistic world was turned upside down. All that I had known was the graphite remaining on my hands after drawing and erasing, drawing and erasing. I was all too familiar with long afternoons that turned into nights as I carefully adjusted my drawing or painting to the most realistic perspective I could manage. And with the click of a button, my focus and passion had changed.

I came to appreciate the art of photography -- making my own space and perspective out of those that already existed. Even better, I was able to mix media and create photography through my drawings. I drew on walls, threw paint and even painted friends faces and my own. My senior year I was given the opportunity to take up an Advanced Placement Digital Photography class in which I was required to come up with my own themed portfolio. "Blending In" was the final product, and the pictures consisted of portraits in which the subject some how matched the background. The countless projects I undertook in high school along with the technology that allowed for digital editing opened up a new world for endless creativity.

Photography is still an important part of who I am today and I thank my hometown for bringing creative genius into my life.