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As a combat veteran turned artist, my work is often a reflection of my experiences on the battlefield. "I Can't Forget" is a testament to the trauma that is often associated with war, and its perpetual impact on children, who are often unwittingly caught in the crossfire.

The image of a small girl holding a camera amidst a barrage of missiles is a powerful commentary on the ubiquitous nature of war. The camera is symbolic of our need to document, to bear witness to the atrocities of war, while the missiles represent the ongoing violence that plagues our world.

Through the use of black, white, and red hues, I aim to convey a raw and unyielding emotion; one that evokes a sense of urgency and defiance. The graffiti style portrait is my way of subverting the status quo, of using my art to challenge the dominant narrative.

Ultimately, "I Can't Forget" is a call to action; a rallying cry for peace and justice. It serves as a reminder of the insidious nature of war, of it...

Emanuel Alvarez Valencia is a remarkable individual, whose life journey has been characterized by resilience and unwavering determination. Born in Zamora Michoacan, Mexico, in 1981, Emanuel immigrated to the United States at the tender age of four years old. Faced with uncertainty and forced to deal with racism, abuse, and workplace exploitation as a young boy, Emanuel Alvarez Valencia's indomitable spirit is a prime example of what overcoming adversity is about. Emanuel's pursuit of the American dream took an unexpected turn when the attacks of 9-11-2001 unfolded. As the planes smashed into the World Trade Center, Emanuel felt an unyielding call to serve his new country and was compelled to enlist in the military. He embarked on the...