Skip to Content
Photos courtesy of Erwin Recinos AKA Los Ojos de Muerte

Vyal Reyes and I met at a warehouse in East Los Angeles. This location is a writer’s paradise with the smell of spray paint always in the air. Each building on this street is covered in tags, and the wall near the entrance of the warehouse has a new burner by Hex LOD. Vyal first introduced me to his students, who are young artists who attend his aerosol workshops at Self Help Graphics. Students attending these workshops are exposed to all aspects of using spray paint to create art.

From there we made our way into the studio. Reyes is currently the resident artist at Self Help Graphics. Self Help Graphics is a community visual arts center located on 1st Street just west of Boyle Heights and is a recognized center for Latino Arts offering programming, exhibitions, workshops and outreach. Artists such as Patsi Valdez, Gronk, Chaz Bojorquez and Lalo Alcaraz have all worked with SHG. Vyal is now a part of that rich history. His goal at SHG for 2012 is to collaborate with different aritsts and to work alongside the master printer Joe Apuche. With Vyal’s reclusive tendencies, this is an opportunity for him to grow artistically with artists and an audience he may not normally have had contact with.

My previous encounter with Vyal was at the Estria Battle this past summer hosted by Crewest Gallery. As we spoke he shared with me a story about Chaz Borjorquez encouraging him to pursue a career as an artist and helping him land some of his first art shows. It stuck with him, as not many people will do that these days and it takes courage to to pursue your passions. Vyal Reyes has since made a living doing what he loves and has not looked back. Graffiti saved his life, and he continues to give back both through art and community service.

To see more photos visit Erwin Recinos on Flickr.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from L.A. TACO

Tens of Thousands of Fans Showed up to San Pedro for NOFX’s Final Show Ever

After 40 years, NOFX ended their storied career next to the San Pedro water, with a sea of fans and supporting punk bands watching the band go off into the sunset.

October 7, 2024

This Weekend: Jalisco-Style Wings, Duck Tamales on Abbot Kinney, and THC-Infused ‘Halloweed’ Candy

Are you brave enough to drink a cocktail from an I.V bag while watching Freddy Kruger do what he does best? Then there's a rooftop in Hollywood waiting for you.

October 4, 2024

Eight Sick Halloween Haunts In Los Angeles

From a theater experience that will scar you to a chance to play a character in a Halloween haunt, we have seven of the most immersive experiences in the city for your Halloween terror.

October 3, 2024

The Taco 69: These Are L.A.’s Best Tacos, Ranked

To live and eat tacos in Los Angeles. As the L.A.'s first publication dedicated to finding the best tacos, we are ranking our fine taco scene for the first time ever. It's the guide to end all other taco guides and dedicated to our members who support us and to the best damn city in the world—complete with a map. Happy 69ing. TACOS FOREVER.

Johnny Marr’s Show In DTLA Reminds Us That Not all Manchester Music Is Miserable

The iconic ex-guitarist, co-founder, and co-songwriter of The Smiths (1982-1987) played a sold-out show at the Orpheum Theatre. And yes, the genius behind "This Charming Man" reminded all of us that only he can truly play that song the way it's meant to be heard, no vocals needed.  

September 30, 2024
See all posts