Arte to me was never a choice. Arte is more of a characteristic, an extension of my soul, my personality. It is my voice for what I can't say. Whether I'm painting a realistic portrait of someone I admire or finishing an abstract painting, arte has provided my escape. The creative process is peaceful and rejuvenating. It allows me the freedom to express what I want. As A Chicano from California I have experienced struggles of Race, Social Class, Poverty, and Violence. Without Arte I would have fallen victim to my struggles. Arte has allowed me to rise above and get an education, a Bachelor’s Degree in Art from California State University, Chico. This book is just a small sample of my sketches, drawings, and paintings. I put these together so that I could have a physical, tangible piece of my life that I can hold and share with friends and Familia. I hope you enjoy viewing some of the Arte that changed and molded my life. Thank You, Eliseo Torres Jr