Miguel Cruz

Fine Art Photographer and Artist

Born in Puerto Rico, Miguel moved to New Jersey nearly three decades ago and built a thriving veterinary practice. But a deep love of art and a unique worldview drove Miguel to follow a passion for creativity – and this self-taught photographer and artist has never looked back.

His inimitable eye quickly garnered attention, and Miguel earned the opportunity to share his gift – as a professional sports photographer, a graphic designer and as a landscape photographer.

Northern California’s stunning vistas beckoned, and Miguel made the bold decision to move cross country five years ago -- a move that reinvigorated his enthusiasm for art. The perpetual student, Miguel became fascinated with the encaustic process, and adopted the method of encasing his photos in wax, a technique that gave his work a depth and painting-like quality.

Once he mastered this, Miguel expanded his use of wax – and has experimented endlessly with this new medium. His newest works are completely made using cold wax and oils, and the resulting pieces are bold, urban art creations that are drawing praise and attention.

Curriculum Vitae

Miguel Cruz

1960 Born in Guayama, Puerto Rico

Currently lives and works in Redding, CA

Education and Mentorships

Pete Kelly Photographer and Encaustic Pioneer 2012-2013

Rodney Thompson Encaustic and Cold Wax Artist 2012-2013

Michael Neveux Photographic Artist 2003-2008

Selected Exhibitions

2012 to Present - The Christopher Hill Galleries St. Helena (Napa Valley) / Healdsburg (Sonoma Wine Country)

2013 Wine Country Encaustics Gustavo Wine Napa, CA

2013 Fine Art Exhibit Oregon St. Antique Mall Redding, CA

2013 Fine Art Photography Tapas Downtown Redding, CA

2013 Photography Art Show Moseley Family Cellars Redding, CA

2012 Mixed Media, Fine Art Spice Lounge Redding, CA

2008 Art Walk Nathan’s Tattoo Shop Redding, CA

Bibliography

Enjoy Magazine Apr 2012 p. 79-80

Enjoy Magazine Aug 2011 p. 61-67

Enjoy Magazine Jul 2011 p. 48-49

Enjoy Magazine Jun 2011 p. 67-68

Enjoy Magazine Nov 2010 p. 67-70

Collections

Private collection, Napa, CA

Private collection, Puerto Rico

Private collection, Chattanooga, TN

Recognition

2013 Named a board member on the Shasta County Arts Council