What are your fave spots for inspiration in S.F.?
"The Mission, where my studio is, and the Lower Haight, where I live. But, in general, wherever there are people and stories. My work is more dependent on people than places — so luckily, I can find inspiration everywhere!"

Who are your artistic icons?
"Spanish romantic painter and printmaker Francisco Goya for his interest in human pathos and subversive subject matter. Contemporary painter Marlene Dumas for her incredible way of handling watercolor — in my opinion, no one does it better. I am also inspired by the work of Emir Kusturica, Serbian filmmaker, actor, and musician. His films, 'Underground' and 'Time of the Gypsies,' which I saw when I was about 13 years old, have deeply inspired my aesthetic. I also find his interpretation and commentary of the Balkans dark, but honest."

Photographed by Caro Ramirez