Boise-based graffiti artist Roberto Gaytan will be creating a commissioned piece on a 16 X 8 ft. ‘canvas’ in the foyer of The Community Library. His piece will be based on the NEA Big Read selection, Into the Beautiful North, as well as his own experiences as a migrant worker. He will be working all day, and invites the public to come by and watch him in action as he surprises us with his colorful and vibrant artistry.
Gaytan was born in Nampa, Idaho. He grew up as a migrant farmworker, nomadically moving throughout the United States to work in the fields. As a teenager, he was introduced to graffiti and art, and eventually pursued a career as an artist. He attended Boise State University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in graphic design in 2001. Currently, Gaytan works as an illustrator at the Bureau of Reclamation. He also owns an art and design studio called Blakbook22 where he paints murals, designs logos and creates custom artwork.