KIMBERLY DURAN
CREATIVE DIRECTOR/ LEAD ARTIST
Hello my name is Kimberly Duran, known professionally as "Shmi". My journey into the realm of art began in Santa Ana, where I was born and raised. From a young age, I found solace and purpose in the act of creation, initially expressing myself through the crafting of mural backdrops for local plays at the age of 11. My identity as a first-generation Chicana plays a pivotal role in shaping the essence of my artistic expression. Raised by migrant parents who settled in Santa Ana, I have always felt a profound connection to my cultural roots. Growing up, frequent visits to Mexico exposed me to a rich tapestry of traditions, customs, and values, instilling within me a deep sense of pride in my heritage. My art serves as a reflection of this journey, weaving together themes of identity and belonging. Through the lens of my experiences and observations, I strive to amplify the voices and narratives of those who inhabit the spaces around me. With aerosol and acrylic as my chosen mediums, I specialize in the creation of large-scale mural paintings that speak to the soul of my community. Rooted in the traditions of folk art, my work is a celebration of the vibrant cultural life that thrives within Santa Ana. Each stroke of paint is a testament to the resilience, beauty, and diversity of the people who call this city home. Through my art, I aim to shape and redefine the collective identity of my community, fostering a sense of pride and unity that transcends boundaries.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: @LEDSXN
BUD HERRERA
LEAD ARTIST | DESIGNER
I work alongside Bud “Thirds Realm” Herrera was born in 1985 in East Los Angeles, California. He grew up drawing as early as the age of 5. His work continued to progress and evolve at the age of 11 he ventured into the art of graff. Graffiti art became his motivation in creating and gave him the confidence to paint larger works. In addition, it taught him perspective, color theory and further developed his artistic skills, which later translated into his work with acrylics. He is currently based out of Santa Ana. He has been awarded several grants from the city of Santa Ana’s Art and Culture Office. As well as been featured on the centerfold of Premiere OC guide to Visual Art October 2020 edition. The growing popularity and demand for “Thirds Realms” artwork has gained the recognition of many and can be found in a variety of private collections throughout Los Angeles, Ventura, Orange County and Mexico City. His work is influenced by nature, philosophy, symbolism, culture and organic elements. He occupies walls in public areas where people of diverse cultures and backgrounds can have access to free public art on their daily commutes. His objective is to continue create quality art, while sparking awareness and amplifying diversity in our community one wall at a time.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: @LALOTHEGIANT
THE HEAVY
In 2013 we co-founded a mural team, The Heavy Collective is a Public Art Initiative specializing in visual art and murals. The Heavy was founded by Kimberly Duran and Bud Herrera. Our goal is to bring art to the local community that often do not have time to view art in museums or galleries. Therefore, we occupied walls in public areas where people of diverse cultures and backgrounds can have access to free public art on their daily commutes. Our inspiration comes from the diverse ethnicities that inhabit the spaces we paint, as well as incorporating ancient civilizations, history, philosophy, culture and organic elements. Our art can be viewed in many different contexts, such as University of San Diego Arts and Humanities center mural to Luxury Hotel in Mexico City. The Heavy has been recognized on the cover & center fold of the Premier OC Visual Art Guide October 2020 Orange Coast Magazine edition. We have also collaborated the Anaheim Ducks, Santa Ana Police Department, City of Santa Ana, City of Pomona, City of Laguna Beach, City of Tustin, Def Jam records, Viacom, MTV, Blue Bowl, Univision, & Non-profit organizations. Our objective is to continue creating quality art, while sparking awareness in our youth one wall at a time. Art is the universal language, and it should be everywhere!
