Eddie Gonzalez is a Mexican American artist from Bakersfield, California, now living in Yakima, Washington. His artistic journey began with watercolor painting and ink drawings, evolving into digital art using tools like Procreate and Adobe Illustrator. Art serves as a therapeutic outlet for Gonzalez, allowing him to process emotions and experiences. He reflects on the tension between vulnerability and resilience in his work, inspired by everyday life and cultural experiences.

Gonzalez’s piece, “Food Is Joy,” highlights the significance of food in forging connections and preserving memories. He fondly recalls childhood moments spent with his grandmother and cousins preparing tamales, emphasizing the laughter, stories, and life lessons shared during those times. The memories evoke feelings of love, patience, and respect, reinforcing the idea that food brings people together and fosters a sense of belonging.

As part of the #ArtistsForFoodJustice initiative, Gonzalez joins twelve other artists from BIPOC communities to interpret themes related to the meaning of food through original digital artwork, premiering each month.