This interview was curated by START Shows

Ignacio Del Rio Duane is a visual artist known for blending urban energy with contemporary techniques. He recently had the unique opportunity to meet Mike Tyson and create a piece of art for him, combining his passion for painting with iconic moments from pop culture.

How did you get your Artist name?

My artistic name honors my father, Ignacio Del Rio Miguel, a renowned painter who passed away in 2015. He was an influential artist who had the privilege of knowing Pablo Picasso personally.”

How did you get into creating?

I have been painting since I was very young. My father, also a renowned artist, would simply watch me work. Despite his fame, he never formally taught me, often saying that he was born to learn, not to teach. After his passing, I stopped painting for a while, but eventually I returned to it—it was something I could never truly give up. Later, when I moved to the United States, I fully immersed myself in art. It became my refuge during moments of loneliness and my sole means of expression. To this day, I am grateful to have met many remarkable figures, and I continue to grow steadily as an artist, always pursuing new horizons.

Where are you from?

“I was born in Cuba and grew up in Burgos, Spain, alongside my father.”

How did growing up in your neighborhood/city affect you?

Growing up in my neighborhood didn’t shape me dramatically, but I was very happy. In Cuba, art wasn’t something we spoke of often, due to the system at the time. Yet, I spent countless hours drawing with pencil, sketching my friends’ girlfriends and people from around the neighborhood. I was just a small boy, but those moments of creativity brought me immense joy and planted the seeds of my artistic journey.”

What did you do to advance your skills/knowledge?

To refine my skills, constant practice has always been essential, as it cultivates both discipline and mastery. I have drawn inspiration from numerous international artists, including Nacho Moya from Mexico, Jo Jerusalem from New York, Domingo Zapata from Spain, and Maseda from Spain. Beyond simply observing, I have learned by actively creating, experimenting, and exploring every technique or idea that sparks my curiosity. This continuous journey of practice and exploration has been the foundation of my growth as an artist.

What does your current setup look like?

My studio is not very large, but it is full of love and creativity. It has oil paints, some acrylics, and plenty of inspiration. With good lighting and the constant support of my wife, I always keep several canvases ready so I can paint whenever inspiration strikes.”

Who inspires you?

One person who inspires me deeply is Jo Jerusalem. His journey—from having nothing and sleeping in a car to achieving remarkable success—is a powerful testament to perseverance and determination. His story motivates me to keep pushing forward in my own artistic path, no matter the challenges I face.”

What is your goal when you create?

My main goal when I create is, first and foremost, that I truly connect with the work myself. I want others to feel the emotions I experienced during the process, to share in that same energy. Finally, I consider the commercial aspect, but always naturally, without forcing it. For me, creating is about authenticity, emotion, and connection.”

Why do you create?

“I believe I create because it is something my very being cannot live without. It is an innate drive that every artist is born with—the need to create, to draw, and to experience true joy through the act of making art.”

How has choosing your creative path affected your life?

The creative path is incredibly rewarding. The hardest part is that, at the beginning, many artists face financial struggles. Yet the joy, fulfillment, and freedom that creating brings far outweigh any challenges. When driven by passion, nothing else matters—what truly counts is the unshakable desire to create.”

Did you have to overcome any obstacles along the way?

Yes, I have faced many obstacles, and I continue to face them. I want to dedicate myself fully to art, but I also work in construction to cover my expenses. It is a temporary situation, and I firmly believe that those who never give up will eventually achieve great success. My passion for art keeps me moving forward, no matter the challenges.”

What's your go-to song right now and why is it important to you?

“I believe my favorite song depends on the moment and the situation. The music I connect with changes with my mood, experiences, and current inspirations.”

What is your dream as an artist and what steps are you taking to reach your dream?

My dream as an artist is to travel the world, exhibit my work internationally, and have my art known and appreciated by people everywhere.”

What would you tell someone else with a dream?

Stay focused and maintain discipline. Even during the toughest moments, when it feels like you’re struggling or in pain, keep moving forward and never give up on your dreams.”

Tell us about your most recent release

My most recent release was a very special moment when I met Mike Tyson in person and presented him with one of my paintings. It was an incredible experience that combined my passion for art with the opportunity to share it with someone I deeply admire.”

Share a link to your most recent release

https://www.instagram.com/p/DSVe_0oEa7f/?igsh=MTQ5ZGI3MnZweWFncA==

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DG6aaG5OnaQ/?igsh=aWF4bGphanR1Ymlr

Facebook.com

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17c9gjExMk/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Photography credit: Photo by Ignacio Del Rio Duane