Ruben Lopez

New York City

Born and raised in New York City, Ruben Lopez (he/him/his) deems the city around him to be his biggest inspiration. He was formerly homeless for many years and recently gained housing in November 2015! He makes art every Tuesday at an open studio provided by Fresh Art, a NYC non-profit that produces public art exhibitions at various venues throughout the city.

Ruben shares, "I make art because I love the city and love to draw it. I want to sell my work so I can share it with people who can identify with city life."

Ruben firmly states that art has changed his life. Since he checked himself into Bellevue Hospital for rehab years ago, art therapy has helped him heal. Ruben now gives back by volunteering at the Bellevue Chemical Dependency Outpatient Program in Manhattan.