June, 2024 CAVARTS Spotlight Feature: Omar Mendoza
This month’s featured CAVARTist is a Coast Guard Veteran whose creative journey has unfolded through decades of copper embossing. Inspired by nature, memory, and the encouragement of his wife, his work transforms metal into landscapes that invite reflection and connection.
His featured piece, The Mountain Thru The Trees, captures the quiet presence of Mt. Shasta and reflects a lifelong commitment to learning, experimenting, and finding meaning through art.
Name:
Omar Mendoza
Artist moniker:
Neno
Branch of service:
Coast Guard
Bio:
Originally from San Diego. Joined to C.G. 82' and got out 86' landing in Northern CA. Worked as a Deputy Sheriff for a while, retired and my wife got me started on embossing. I have been doing it for 20 years now and still discover new things.
Title of piece:
"The Mountain Thru The Trees"
Medium of piece:
Copper
Meaning behind piece:
Mt. Shasta posed for this landscape while I was visiting the area.
Piece:
What inspires you to create art?:
My wife, and the enjoyment I get when I finish a piece that has meaning to many. It triggers memories and thought.
What part of your life has benefited the most from your creative pursuits?:
My retirement, I always have something to do. From planning a piece in my mind to gathering the material. Practicing and I especially like it when I do a custom item.
Is it important for you to challenge yourself in your art?:
Tell us why or why not! Very, I have recently tried to insert natural rock into an embossing. Still working on getting it right.
What is your process or ritual to get your creativity flowing?:
Preparation is a big part. If I have all the materials I want to use I feel ready to get started.
What does CAVARTS mean to you?:
CAVARTS is a great place to show one's work and get feedback. I have met several really good artists who are inspiring. I really like to see what other VETS are doing. So much talent.
Our monthly theme for June is Great Outdoors, but Omar submitted this form in March, when we were celebrating Magical March. How did you celebrate Magical March?:
I am working on a Box that is approx. 100 years old and broken. I plan to refurbish it and try some new ideas on it decorations as the old parts were lost. I hope it is magical when finished.
What words of inspiration do you have for your fellow CAVARTists?:
Only Leonardo da Vinci knew where he made any mistakes, so, in the end its part of the art and perfect.
