Minneapolis , MN native Juan T. Parker’s appreciation for art came at the early age of six with pastels chalk and pencil drawings. A degree in Media Production and Commercial Art from the Minneapolis Technical Institute - his career began in acrylic painting for private and commercial businesses such as AT&T, Abbott Northwestern, and radio stations. His focus is on eye-catching colors and texture arrangements to create two dimensional works of art. In 1997 he began a mixed media style – a combination of oil pastels, oil paints, yarn, acrylic paints, china marketer, pastels chalk, and pencil drawings.

Juan uses a technique of yarn and acrylic paint not common by Midwest artists. His bees wax with yarn style is one of a kind in the U.S. The closest method would be that of some works seen in Mexico . This type of application allows for a varied texture expression in each painting.

After being “recreational” for many years Juan went professional in 1987 and went on to do many openings at cafes and salons all over Minneapolis and St. Paul . Some include Tille’s Bean, Blondies, Day By Day Café, Egg and I, Jungle Red Salon, Expresso Royale, Coffee News Café, and Pusch Salon.

Juan continues to tap into his roots by showcasing the joys and pain of the human race. He feels his background gives a unique perspective to his works. His subjects range from nature and graphic designs, youth and adult figures, fashion and abstract themes. Juan’s most recent commissioned work is four oversized murals for Macalester Plymouth United “Church in St. Paul .

Juan currently resides in St. Paul , MN ,,,, you may contact Juan at 651-233-7233 and juan.parker@juno.com.