bio
Devon Walz is a mixed media artist and muralist based in Santa Ana, CA.
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Her self-study of visual art began while earning a BA in Philosophy at UC Berkeley. Known for her use of bright colors, nostalgic elements and otherworldly settings, the development of her work has been influenced by her interests in psychology and world-building, and growing up female in the 90s.
Devon has exhibited her work throughout California, worked with clients such as Vans and WorkWell, collaborated on a variety design projects and her pieces are held by collectors around the globe.
In addition to her studio practice she teaches workshops and hosts conversations about all things being a working artist on her podcast, ART + MAGIC.

photo by Ian Cabrera
statement
There’s a part of me that feels held hostage by my adolescent experiences, and another part that craves a return to innocence. The tension between these two is the arranging force behind the surreal world depicted in my work.
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By way of girly color palettes, craft- based materials, and references to my 90’s childhood, I aim to create a safe and playful space in which I can deconstruct my past traumas and challenging psychological states. Compositions in my work are highly intentional and placing elements “perfectly” is important to me; an effort to get it right this time. I work primarily in acrylic and oil, but incorporate a wide range of techniques and materials such as airbrushing, spray paint, piping, glitter and vinyl, allowing for the wide range of qualities I believe to be important in a dreamland.
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In my recent work, I’ve been exploring the theme of freedom versus imprisonment through the lens of individual rooms, where larger mythology, often told via symbols, has been developing. Chains often double as “ropes,” serving as symbols of both confinement and hope. Portals and windows offer the possibility of escape, but the bars on the windows beg the question: are we trapped here, or choosing to stay?
interviews + features
I Like Your Work | Hedges and Houses and Mothers and Children curated by Pennylane Shen
How to Feel Podcast | EP 01 Creative During Difficult Times
Rising Women Leaders Podcast | EP 83: Creativity, Art and Learning to Trust
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The Darling Revolution Podcast | Finding Your Voice Through the Magic of Art
Makers Magazine | Issue 6: Movement
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SD Voyager | Thought-Provokers
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The Quiet Brave Podcast | EP 11: What is going on underneath the surface
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Wild and Creative Podcast | EP 3: Ditching the 9-5 for the studio
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Nicole Young | Artists Answer Questions