Drawn to Life brings together the works of four contemporary illustrators whose work is inspired by themes of tradition, fantasy, and physical relationships to one's body. Using illustration as an entry point, these artists create visual narratives being told through a diverse lens interpreted by their personal experiences and cultural references. The exhibition offers viewers an opportunity to explore storytelling in ways that are deeply personal yet universally resonant, making Drawn to Life a rich tapestry of voices and visions.
Despite coming from different generations, cultural backgrounds, and stages in their careers spanning emerging to established—these artists share a unifying commitment to their craft. Each brings a signature style, weaving together a tapestry of experiences that reflect the intersections of time, race, age, and culture. Their work reveals the depth and complexity of human experience while celebrating the individuality inherent in visual storytelling.
Featuring the works of Debbie Ali, Sakura Abdel-Rahman, Edwin "Enoch" Sanchez, and Ivan Velez, the artists showcase the vast possibilities within the realm of illustration. Their practices span a wide range of techniques and mediums, from traditional pencil drawing and ink to digital art, comics, manga, and mixed media. Drawn to Life represents the full spectrum of diversity in contemporary illustration, celebrating the unique ways in which these artists merge technique with narrative to create dynamic and engaging visual worlds.
Debbie Ali's book arts practice, addresses feminist and queer issues, conveying complex ideas with creativity and depth. Utilizing horror vacui—filling every surface with intricate details—Sakura Abdel-Rahman creates small, dense prints featuring stars, flowers, Japanese familial iconography, sorcery, calligraphy, and personal writings, often embedding secrets and memories into their work. Edwin "Enoch" Sanchez's drawings merge the visual traditions of Western and Eastern comics to explore themes of struggle, the hero’s journey, and Christianity. Ivan Velez Jr. employs the accessible medium of cartooning to dissect national history and celebrate the power and beauty of diverse cultural identities, fostering social change.
Ruddy Mejia, is a Bronx-based artist, curator, teaching artist, and art specialist with 13 years of experience in art education. He is also the Facilities Manager of the Bx Arts Factory. Mejia has worked with a variety of arts institutions such as Bronx Museum, Bronx House Inc, Free Arts NYC, Bronx Children’s Museum, to name a few. As an artist, Ruddy’s practice is a range of mediums- from illustration to painting to taxidermy to merchandise design. Ruddy’s illustrative work explores themes of mental health and trauma, many from which are personal life experiences.
