Check Out Matthew Aceves’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Matthew Aceves.

Hi Matthew , thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m an emerging artist who has been drawing since childhood. During high school, I realized that art was more than just a hobby—it was the one thing that truly made sense to me. That passion led me to pursue a BFA in Illustration & Design at ArtCenter College of Design, where I graduated with BFA in Illustration & Design; strong foundation in creative expression and technique. I’m currently based in Los Angeles, focusing on expanding my personal practice through commissions and gallery work. Alongside my own projects, I work with a mural company and collaborate with other well-known artists on commissioned paintings.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road—I’m a traditional artist in an increasingly digital world. I’ve had my share of breakthroughs, but it’s definitely been a journey of ups and downs. I understand that the market is tough right now, but I truly believe there’s work out there for everyone. It’s all about timing, getting seen, and connecting with the right people. There’s a market for everything!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a realist oil painter and muralist specializing in traditional art, and I’m dedicated to continuing down that creative path. One of my proudest accomplishments is a recent mural commission from my former high school—the very place that inspired me to take art seriously and pursue it through college and beyond. I believe my approach to rendering is what sets me apart; while everyone has their own style, I’ve found that even something as seemingly straightforward as realism can be deeply personal and recognizable.

How do you define success?
Success for me is being able to do the things I dreamed about as a kid. I always wanted to be an oil painter but never thought I could because of limited space. I always wanted to paint murals but couldn’t imagine how someone could create something so large. I always wanted to get paid for my art but questioned who would ever want to buy it. Each of those doubts started with a what if—and I chose to pursue them anyway. Now, at 23 years old, I’ve achieved many of the dreams and goals I once thought were impossible.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://matthewaceves.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Matthewacevesart/