Miguel Angel Mendoza Melchor, also known as Xquendanu Arte is the embodiment of the nobility of the emerging artist, working to support a family, while making art and music. He sets an example for his children and anyone who learns about him and his work. Miguel is originally from the village of Zaachila Oaxaca, Mexico. He came to Bridgeport when he was 19, and has worked and lived in Bridgeport and New Haven for decades, creating art in his studio and public art in New Haven. He is now moving into a working studio at the NEST Arts Factory in Bridgeport CT. Curator Suzanne Kachmar says, "Over the years I have watched his art and the art and talents of his family blossom. Miguel and his wife have instilled and nurture the artistic skills and passion of their children".  Miguel often uses family members and friends as his muse and performs Latin music with his sons.

Recently Miguel studied at the Paier School of Art. The recognizable advance in Miguel’s painting skills is a result from the technical direction received from the Paier instructors, augmenting his natural talent and decades of art making. When it all comes together, it is the sincere meditative creation, melding his love for the people he paints with the mood of Mexican Magical Realism and the light of Caravaggio.