One of the main things that inspires me in my art is my family and loved ones, such as my sister, mom and girlfriend. Also, the reactions of people when they see my art. I think that’s my main motivation because it makes me do better not only in my art but also as a person. All my subjects come from my experiences, whether they are good or bad. I usually use pencil , colored pencils and sometimes a Sharpie. Art is my life, life is my art —representing me as an artist and also tattoo artist. I’m currently learning how to do tattoos at a shop called G’s Ink, and in the future am hoping to have my own tattoo shop.

Jaime Toledo is a senior at Lennard High.

Photo 1: Skulls surrounded by fire (no title)
Photo 2: Cruzin. This Chrysler 300 is sketched with pencil then colored with Sharpies.
Photo 3: SPM. Drawn for Jaime's girlfriend.

On Exhibit features high school artists from the Tampa Bay area. Go to tb-two.com to see more work by this and other artists. If you know a high school student we should consider spotlighting (including yourself), please send the name, school, art medium and contact information to tbtwostaff@gmail.com. Put “on exhibit” in the subject line.