Meet the Maker: Oscar Toloza

• After two semesters studying computer animation at the Art Institute of Indianapolis in the early 2010s, Toloza decided to fully pursue visual art in 2019.
• Since then, he has taught himself to work with acrylics, oil, graphite, spray paint and more.

Zoom in: Toloza says the focus of his work is always in flux. He is currently exploring the themes of perseverance, animal instincts and our relationship to nature.

• He shared that exploration during last Friday's opening of "Solstice in Spirit" at Fonseca-Du Bois Gallery, located inside Indianapolis Liberation Center's new storefront on Prospect Street.
• The exhibit runs through January, and the gallery is planning a hands-on workshop with Toloza for the new year.
• He also has work on display in Arte Club at Newfields and in De Aquí y De Allá at the Eiteljorg Museum, which highlights the 2025 cohort of the Latino Artist Mentorship Program.

What he's saying: "When I first started this art thing, I never thought I would be doing the things I'm doing now, whether it's the art I'm making, or selling artwork to my lovely collectors," he writes on Instagram. "One thing I've been telling myself when I'm second guessing myself is that "the proof is in the pudding" as a way to (remind) myself of what I've accomplished so far."

Check him out: On his website, Instagram or Facebook.