Randy Chavez, called a "... new artist to watch" in the 1990s, distinguished himself from the pack with style that has been called "magic realism." Inspired by the writings of author Gabriel Marques, Chavez acknowledges a significant Renaissance influence in his work; his figures are rounded, rich and reminiscent of a time when deep colors, ample forms and the play of light and shadow on a subject's face gave paintings depth. Chavez studied painting and illustration at The Academy of Art in San Francisco, where he now teaches, and continues to create paintings that "... play with people's perceptions".