About Chris Contreras

Hello! My name is Chris I'm a mexican american visual artist. I’m the owner and creative director of Ahrt Face. This company started as a hobby and has now grown into a company that I’m so proud to call my own. Many of you guys have asked me how I started Ahrt Face and are curious how it progressed the way it did, so I thought I’d share some history with you!

During my undergrad, I was an art intern who assisted with many exhibitions at my local playhouse theatre and art museum. I offered my time and creativity to serve my community in various events and activities. I worked in my university library for the majority of my academic career as a digitization assistant. I was in charge of capturing photo files, processing, metadata, and preserving various archive collections. I simultaneously worked in the library to save extra money as I studied to obtain my business degree to build the foundation for my next-level creative business venture. In the spring of 2022, I graduated from my university with a degree in business management, economics, and global art studies.

I’ve always been a creative visual learner ever since I was young. I was obsessed with creating art accessories and all things apple products. My first apple product was a bright sky blue ipod touch. I used it to watch youtube tutorials on how to make duct tape wallets, 3D paper origami characters, and beaded rave bracelets in my free time. I would sell them to my classmates as a way to make some extra cash. One time I entered a duct tape wallet design contest online and won $50! This was such a boost in my creative self-confidence. A light inside me switched on when I realized that I can flip my hobbies into a business.

My metal wire iphone cases are just the beginning of my brand. Eventually, I want to design my own re-worked/original garment clothing line, home goods products, and other accessories like jewelry and handbags. I'm in the process of cultivating an ever-changing 360-degree agency structured system that will represent multifaceted creatives throughout the cyberspace. I want to serve by promoting and building creative communities to be seen, heard, and proud to share their creative passion projects or skills.

In every project, I incorporate a remastered delicate visual style paired with a strong emotional connection to each of my subjects. Within my work, I promote the freedom of gender, sexuality, and identity. All the visual art I produce is limitless as I often pull inspiration from my personal experiences and original fictional fantasy stories to create something exciting and new. 

I am always so thankful for everyone who has helped me become who I am today. And of course, I am super thankful for everyone who supports Ahrt Face - it has become a total dream I never thought was possible. But of course, this isn’t the peak for Ahrt Face. I always dream bigger and never settle for less. I truly value Ahrt Face and everyone who supports what I do, and that is the best motivation to always improve. Remember, don't chase butterflies instead mend your own garden and opportunities shall come to you! It's never too late to start your own creative passion projects.

Be seen, Be heard, Be proud. Express your #AhrtFace.

— Chris