Cristiano Vassell

Christian Vassell (b. 1993) is a multi-disciplinary artist who has been creating work at NIAD Art Center in Richmond, CA since 2012. Vassell’s drawing practice incorporates research into cultural artifacts, food, music, and animals from around the world. He describes his process: “I want to draw a picture. I want to color animals. I want to read the bird book.”

In recent years he has produced multiple artist’s books featuring personal stories and symbols, as well as boldly glazed ceramic forms, and a series of vibrant paintings on vintage vinyl records. In 2021, Vassell collaborated with eight other artists to complete an 8 by 8 foot mural for the SFMOMA Mini Mural Festival. Christian Vassell’s work has been included in exhibitions at the Oakland Museum of California and the Richmond Art Center in Richmond, CA.

What do you want to draw? 

I want to draw a picture.

What do you want to paint?

I want to paint on canvas with acrylics.

What do you want to color?

I want to color animals.

What did you do this weekend?

I went swimming.

What do you want to read?

I want to read the bird book.

What do you want to eat?

I want to eat hot dogs!