Johnny Bear Contreras is a dedicated public artist and activist with a remarkable career spanning over 40 years. As a multidisciplinary artist, Johnny Bear is known for his mastery of various materials, including wood, stone, and metals such as stainless steel, bronze, and aluminum. A member of the San Pasqual Band of Kumeyaay, Johnny passionately integrates his traditional teachings into his work, breathing new life into contemporary art. His work serves to contextualize the Native/ Indigenous experience, allowing audiences to engage with rich cultural narratives through a modern setting.
