Details
Local artist Bailey Rios uses art to explore identity in his painting Self Portrait in a New Studio, placing himself inside his studio surrounded by meaningful objects. Like many artists throughout history who have painted themselves in their workspaces, Bailey uses this studio to tell his own story. Around him are religious paintings, portraits of himself and his partner, a guitar, his grandfather’s clothes, and an old chair. Each item represents something important: faith, love, music, family, culture, and memory. His mixed heritage, including Indigenous, Mexican, African American, and French roots, strongly influences his work. He uses painting to learn about his ancestry and the stories passed down through generations. This piece honors his past while showing his commitment to keep growing, learning, and moving forward in both life and art.
Find Self Portrait in a New Studio in SLOMA’s McMeen Gallery Spotlight.
About the artist
Bailey Rios, born in the Bay Area in 2002, is an oil painter and sculptor whose early focus on sports shifted to the arts during his university years. After earning his B.A. in studio art from University of California, Santa Cruz in 2024, he received multiple prestigious scholarships and was awarded an Artist-in-Residence position and solo exhibition at The San Lorenzo Valley Museum, where two of his works were permanently accessioned. His work has since been exhibited in numerous California galleries and museums, including a recent solo show at Cruise Control Contemporary. Now living on the Central Coast, Bailey works as a substitute elementary art teacher and is currently awaiting responses to his Master of Fine Arts applications.