About the Artist

Tony Armendariz was born and raised in Chicago in a graphic arts family. Upon graduating from Lane Technical High School he attended the American Academy of Art in Chicago where he had the privilege to study watercolor under renowned instructor Irving Shapiro. Also while still at the Academy he got his first job as a graphic artist in advertising.

Upon receiving his AA in Graphic Art, he continued developing his skills working an airbrush illustrator, keyliner, color proofing technician and print/web designer in a variety of industries including advertising, publishing, retail, manufacturing and pharmaceutical.

Aside from his many travels throughout the US, Tony has developed themes featuring subject matter he found in Europe and even Cuba. These countries make their presence known heavily in his paintings. When describing his themes and subject matter he says: "Sometimes you see the stories you’re looking for when you're not looking at all, be it people or buildings. The creative switch is always on."

Tony now paints exclusively in watercolor in the pure transparent tradition on paper. He currently belongs to many artistic organizations across the country, including the Illinois Watercolor Society of which he is a signature member and also serves as their Executive Director.

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Affiliations

• Illinois Watercolor Society - Executive Director
• Art Encounter - Board Member
• Elmhurst Artists' Guild - Board Member
• Chicago Artists' Coalition
• Allied Artists of America
• Lakes Region Watercolor Guild
• Missouri Watercolor Society
• Northwest Cultural Council
• Northwest Watercolor Society
• North East Watercolor Society
• Transparent Watercolor Society of America
• Pennsylvania Watercolor Society
• American Watercolor Society
• National Watercolor Society