Hijos Del Sol Arts Productions is a longstanding, community-based organization providing professional art instruction for children and youth of underserved neighborhoods, including many that are homeless or in foster care, and families seeking a fresh start in the U.S. 

​

HDS consistent studio space and the necessary tools and materials to complete projects and experiment with various mediums. Throughout each year, Instructors and students design collective exhibits to showcase their work. In addition to visual arts instruction, we provide ample opportunity for exploration with interdisciplinary forms; exposure to historical, contemporary and cultural traditions; and practice with core life competencies, all while fostering the value of post- secondary education. An important strategy is to create jobs with allowance for youth apprentices that act as mentors to the next generation of up and coming young illustrators.* 

​

José G. Ortiz is the Founding Director and Lead Art Instructor for Hijos Del Sol Arts Productions. He has worked with thousands of children, youth, and young adults teaching illustration, painting, sculpture, and fabrication. He also creates and teaches mural painting with an emphasis on history, culture, and philosophy with lessons on tolerance, teamwork, and diversity. The over sixty mobile and permanent mural works can be seen on public buildings and structures around Monterey County and beyond.