Artist: FABIAN DEBORA

Fabian Debora is an accomplished and multi-faceted artist, educator, and community advocate, deeply influenced by his Chicano heritage and his dedication to social causes. Born in El Paso, Texas, he embarked on his artistic journey in 1995 with the East Los Angeles Streetscapers, where he honed his craft under the mentorship of notable Chicano muralists. His creative range spans graffiti, murals, and fine art painting, and he has showcased his work in various solo and group exhibitions across the U.S. and Latin America.

His career also highlights his commitment to service and mentorship. For over ten years, Fabian worked at Homeboy Industries, a program that provides services to former gang members, where he counseled individuals and oversaw substance abuse services. Later, he became the Community Connection Director at the Arts for Incarcerated Youth Network and worked as a teaching artist for ACTA (Alliance of Traditional Arts), bringing arts education to incarcerated adults. These experiences have shaped his mission to use art as a means of empowerment and healing.

Through his involvement with the Homeboy Art Academy, which he founded, Fabian continues to support marginalized communities, offering both artistic and personal development opportunities. His work is recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious National Endowment for the Arts Heritage Fellowship, reflecting his impact as both an artist and a leader in community arts.

His practice is a powerful example of how art can be a transformative tool for both personal growth and social change.