Born January 28, 1958 in Kingsville, Texas, Ray Valdez is of Nahua/Yaqui Indian ancestry. Ray’s earliest encouragement for his art was in junior high school from his father. Ray felt accepted for his talent when his father framed and hung one of his paintings in his office. This simple action has influenced him to persevere in the arts. Ray knew then that art would be an intimate part of his life.

Over the years he has created many beautiful watercolor and acryclic paintings for family and friends. Though initially a folk artist he has developed his skills and continued creating both watercolors and acrylic paintings to reflect his own personal experiences, as well as religious visions.

Ray has been involved in gaining religious rights for himself and other Native American people. Teaching people to view Native philosophy as a legitimate religion allowed Ray and others to seek spiritual guidance, endure their right to gather, to smoke their sacred canupa, and to pray to the Great Spirit.