Drawing parallels between urban decay and working-class communities, José Galván Martínez is a Chilango visual artist that explores the visuals of the urban experience through hand-built ceramics and textiles. His work yields from the assimilation to American culture, memories of his native Mexico, constant relocations and commutes.

The artist’s childhood in Mexico City imprinted an early fascination with landmarks and urbanism, and the influence of his native country’s rich ceramic and textile culture is evident in his approach to the mediums. His work further explores Mexican dichos and refranes through video and performance.

He received a BA from California State University, Channel Islands (2023) before receiving his MFA from California State University, Northridge (2026).

The Artist participated in The Color Network’s 2024 Project M Residency at Watershed Center for the Ceramic Arts in Newcastle, ME and 2022 Ventura Potters Guild Summer Residency at Clay Zen Studios in Ojai, CA.

643 Project Space in Ventura, CA, presented a solo exhibition of Galván Martínez’s work titled Entre Colores, Recuredos y Sabores in 2022. His work has been included in group exhibitions including Made in California at Brea Gallery in Brea, CA (2026), GlaMFA at California State University, Long Beach (2026), and Split Ends at OCC Frank M. Doyle Arts Pavilion in Costa Mesa, CA (2025).