From his origins in Mexico, Manuel Avendano's ability to paint the human figure has grown and developed, eventually earning the honor of being hired to paint the portraits of the last two presidents of Mexico, President Vicente Fox and President Felipe Calderon. "I have always expressed myself ... moreFrom his origins in Mexico, Manuel Avendano's ability to paint the human figure has grown and developed, eventually earning the honor of being hired to paint the portraits of the last two presidents of Mexico, President Vicente Fox and President Felipe Calderon. "I have always expressed myself through art. In my early years, drawing and painting took me into a world of my own, and I always knew this would lead me to a career as an artist. The small and large cities in Mexico gave me a great source of inspiration, as well as the strong Hispanic influence. My subjects, mostly people in the traditional Hispanic scene, include Flamenco dancers, women with sombreros, tango dancers, etc." Generally using his wife as his model, Avendano enjoys portraying the delicate beauty of the feminine figure in his work.

In 2001, when running a commercial graphics business, Manuel set up a small area for a portrait painting studio. "Soon I was so busy doing portraits that I had to decide between the graphics work and the portrait work. I chose to follow my dream and become a full time artist."

Almost exclusively through word of mouth, Avendano's reputation grew until he was painting many prestigious in Mexican society and politics, eventually resulting in the portrait work of the two Presidents.
Manuel moved to the US in 2007 and has established himself in San Diego, CA, where he continues to create beautiful paintings. "I have met wonderful people in this country and have made great friends."




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