Esteban Raheem Abdul Raheem Samayoa (b. 1994, Sacramento, CA) is a Mexican-Guatemalan artist based in Oakland, whose practice is a profound exploration of cultural heritage, identity, and transformation. Working across charcoal, painting, ceramics, and installation, Samayoa’s work captures intimate moments of nostalgia and resilience, drawing from personal and communal histories. His mastery of black and white charcoal drawings serves as the foundation of his practice, rendering evocative scenes that feel both deeply personal and universally resonant. Beyond monochrome, he embraces vibrant color and rich textures, incorporating materials like burlap, plaster, and soil—elements that pay homage to his Guatemalan roots and the tactile nature of memory.

Samayoa’s work extends beyond self-reflection; it is a means of forging connections. By channeling personal experiences into visual storytelling, he creates spaces for dialogue, healing, and collective understanding. His art is not just a testament to his own journey but an invitation for others to see themselves within it—a celebration of community, transformation, and the enduring power of self-expression. Recent exhibitions include Esteban Raheem Abdul Raheem Samayoa: Blood Be Water, ICA San José, San José, CA (2025) and Ain’t No Dogs In Heaven, pt.2, Oakland, CA (2023); and It’s Good to be Here, Rosa Projects, Oakland, CA (2023).