Food is Joy: Eddie Gonzalez

Eddie Gonzalez

Artist Bio:

My name is Eddie Gonzalez, and I am a Mexican American artist born in Bakersfield, California and also lived in San Antonio, Texas growing up in my youth. My work is rooted in watercolor painting and ink drawings, styles that allow me to express both softness and strength through emotion. In recent years, I’ve grew my creative practice into digital art, using tools like Procreate and Adobe Illustrator to explore new ways of self-expression.

Art has always been a form of therapy for me. A way to process experiences and express emotions I once struggled to share. Growing up, certain circumstances and living situations made it difficult to give and accept things like affection, but through creating art, I found a bridge toward connection and understanding. My work is a reflection of that healing journey, capturing the tension between vulnerability and resilience.

I began drawing at a young age, but later I found a new creative voice as a musician. I discovered new opportunities to merge visual and musical expressions by designing logos and album covers for bands. Now living in Yakima, Washington, with my family, I continue to grow as an artist. Drawing inspiration from everyday life, culture, and the emotional landscapes that shape who we are. Through my art, I aim to connect with others, inviting them to see pieces of themselves in my story as well.

Artist Statement:

“Food Is Joy” represents to me love, tradition, and memory. As a child, I remember spending time with my grandma and cousins helping her prepare tamales for the family. It wasn’t just about preparing them; it was about laughter, shared stories, and the lessons taught by her that made my heart swell up with happiness and pride. In those times, being a kid, she taught me patience, manners, respect, and empathy for others. Most of all, she taught me it’s okay to be me, just make sure my heart is in lead. Growing up, I always remind myself of those happy moments where food was what brought us together and helped not only create a beautiful bond between a family, but it also created the assurance knowing I am always loved, even when the world pretends otherwise. And that to me is why food brings me joy.

#ArtistsForFoodJustice: Twelve Washington artists from Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) communities and marginalized identities interpret our monthly Meaning of Food themes through original digital artwork, premiering on the first day of each month. Learn more about this series and the artists here.