Art major Geraldo Franco had his painting, “Iraq War,” hanging on the wall of Coffee Studio in Cerritos last semester as a way of promoting the art club and the art produced by students.

From an early age, Franco has taken an interest in painting.

“When I was in third grade, the class would do these drawings, and the teachers would always comment and keep my work and use them as example,” he recalled.

At the age of 13, Franco held his first art gallery in Norwalk.

“I was so nervous, I didn’t even know who to invite. I wasn’t ready for it but it was a good experience,” he said.

Galileo Gonzalez, computer animation major, said, “When I first saw his paintings, I was surprised with the talent. I was blown away. He’s a very realistic painter.”

Franco tries to emulate American painter John Sargent.

“He’s a really realistic painter and that’s what I try to go for, he’s an inspiration,” he said.

With the full support of his family, Franco plans on becoming an art teacher eventually, teaching at the university level.

“When I was 17, a Starbucks manager offered me to draw for them, like the lattes and croissants out of chalk. I turned it down and missed out. I regret not doing that because he could have recommended me to other people,” Franco said about his one regret.  

Aside from painting, Franco was also on the tennis team at Cerritos College, but due to scheduling conflict with his classes, he opted to take the semester off but still continues to practice with them.

He is also involved in several clubs on campus, such as the Honor Club and Phi Theta Kappa.

Franco’s next project is the showcase that the Art Department hosts at the end of the semester.