David Zayas: The Master of Urban Art
- ayouthviewpoint
- Feb 6
- 2 min read
By Malena Aponte
“You really, really have to be madly passionate. A little blinded by what you want...”
Walking the streets of San Juan, Rincón, Guaynabo, or countless locations around the island and internationally, chances are you’ve encountered the mesmerizing work of David Zayas. Born in 1983 in Ponce, Zayas is one of Puerto Rico’s most notable contemporary artists. He frequently paints large-scale murals brimming with symbols of Puerto Rican culture, captivating audiences with their brilliant color palettes and meticulous detail. His pieces not only celebrate the human experience but also resonate across generations.
Inspired early on by Jean-Michel Basquiat—who many don’t know lived in San Juan during his teenage years—Zayas demonstrated advanced drawing skills from a young age. He studied at the Escuela de Bellas Artes de Ponce and is currently a professor at the Universidad Metropolitana de San Juan, where he began teaching the first urban art course. Urban art, or neo-graffiti, is a beloved form of expression for many Puerto Ricans, especially since the introduction of art festivals like Santurce es Ley and Ponce es Ley. Since the 2000s, several Puerto Rican artists have gained global recognition, including Bik Ismo, Alexis Díaz, and Natalia Nicole Rodríguez, whose works have been showcased in Italy, Brazil, Germany, Colombia, and many other countries. Zayas stands at the forefront of this movement, contributing his unique vision to the global art scene.
When asked about his creative process, Zayas describes it as a journey that begins with rough sketches, accompanied by his favorite music—often Eladio Carrión. This rhythm energizes him to refine his ideas and commit the countless hours needed to complete his murals. His passion and dedication have earned him significant recognition, including commissions from global superstar Bad Bunny. Zayas’ work has been prominently featured in the Hiram Bithorn Stadium and the documentary Aquí vive gente by Bianca Graulau.
However, it’s not these collaborations that solidify his standing in the art world, but rather his unique style that incorporates the nuances of living. Whether admired or critiqued, his murals leave an indelible impression on anyone who encounters them, embodying what it truly means to be truly, madly, and fervently passionate about art.
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