We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Alfonso Apodaca III. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Alfonso below.
Alfonso , appreciate you joining us today. Looking back on your career, have you ever worked with a great leader or boss? We’d love to hear about the experience and what you think made them such a great leader.
When I was working as a medical illustrator, I had the incredible privilege of working alongside Rusty Jones — an artist whose talent was only matched by his generosity and leadership. Rusty wasn’t officially my boss, but he became a mentor in every sense of the word. He took the time to guide me, offering not just technical advice about technique and precision, but also inspiring me to see the deeper storytelling power behind our work.
There was one project in particular — a complex surgical illustration — where I was completely overwhelmed. I remember Rusty sitting down with me, patiently breaking down each step, encouraging me to trust my instincts while still pushing me to refine every detail. Instead of telling me what to do, he asked questions that helped me figure it out for myself. That moment stuck with me because it showed me the kind of leader he was: someone who empowered others rather than overshadowed them.
Thanks to Rusty’s mentorship, I developed the skills and confidence that have shaped my career ever since. His example taught me that leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about lifting others up and helping them grow.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Creativity has always been in my blood. Raised by a mother who was an artist and a sister who became a fashion designer, I was immersed in a world of artistic expression from an early age. That foundation fueled a lifelong passion that has evolved into a career spanning over two decades — a journey defined by technical mastery, innovation, and heart.
I specialize in medical illustration and interactive media, capturing the intricacies of human anatomy for medical legal cases, film productions, and academic journals. My work has also expanded into the public art scene, with murals across Dallas — notably in the historic Deep Ellum district — and in Cocoa Beach, Florida, where I now live full-time. In addition to murals, my portfolio includes hyperrealistic charcoal and graphite drawings, vivid acrylic paintings, and immersive pieces that incorporate augmented reality.
Recently, I was honored to be part of a powerful project that transformed Narcan vending machines into works of art across North Texas, aimed at raising awareness and combating overdoses. It’s projects like these that remind me how art can truly make a difference.
Alongside my individual pursuits, my daughter, Libby Apodaca and I have the incredible honor of serving as portrait artists for the Dallas Police Department, creating memorial pieces to commemorate officers who have fallen in the line of duty — a role we are deeply proud of.
Beyond my art, I also contribute to the precision training of Dallas SWAT snipers, specializing in helping them develop instinctive accuracy and decision-making under pressure. Through focused techniques and intensive repetition, I train snipers to react effectively and naturally, helping to ingrain life-saving skills into second nature.
My artistic style is characterized by hyperrealistic detail and emotional depth. In addition to my signature blocked art — which often hides layered images for discovery — I love blending traditional mediums with modern technology, breathing life into pieces in a way few others do. My versatility across a wide range of styles and techniques is something that truly sets me apart.
I’m also proud to share my work more broadly through my art book, available now on Amazon: Beyond the Canvas: A Journey Through Art and Innovation. It’s a reflection of my artistic journey, creative philosophies, and favorite pieces across the years.
Ultimately, whether through commissioned portraits, large-scale murals, detailed anatomical drawings, or sniper training sessions, my goal remains the same: to create meaningful, impactful work that resonates, inspires, and endures.
How’d you meet your business partner?
I haven’t officially met my business partner yet — at least, not in the traditional sense. Instead, I’m hoping that one day my oldest daughter Libby Apodaca and I will step into that role together. It’s been a dream of mine for years to build something creative and meaningful with her, particularly in the world of art.
Since she was little, we’ve shared a strong connection through creativity. Whether it was painting together, exploring new artistic ideas, or simply encouraging each other’s imagination, art has always been a common language between us. I envision us creating a space where we can share our passion with others — an online art business that not only showcases our work but also inspires others to explore their own creativity.
While we aren’t officially business partners yet, I truly believe the foundation is already there: built on love, trust, shared dreams, and a mutual passion for art. More than anything, I look forward to the day we can launch something together that lets the Apodaca name flourish in the art world — a name that stands for creativity, connection, and legacy. I’m excited for what’s ahead, and I believe that when the time is right, we’ll come together to make this dream a reality. Sometimes the best partnerships are the ones that grow naturally over time, and I feel grateful to be laying that groundwork with her every day.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
Beyond training and knowledge, what has truly shaped my success in this field is the community — the incredible artists and mentors who have walked alongside me, each leaving their mark on my journey.
I’ve had the honor of learning from Rusty Jones, a master of plein air painting, a gifted medical illustrator, and a mentor whose guidance continues to echo through my work. Preston Pannek opened my eyes to the raw energy of the urban art world, teaching me to see color not just as pigment, but as emotion, movement, and rebellion. Joey Rush, more than just an art teacher — a good friend and a brother from another mother — has been a steady source of encouragement and creative fire.
I’ve shared unforgettable moments with Chase Fleischman, an artist and curator whose vision has helped bring so many of our shows to life, and Eder Tron, another brilliant creative spirit whose energy pushes boundaries and challenges norms.
And then there’s Deep Ellum Art Co. in Dallas owners Kari and John LaRue — not just a venue, but a playground, a living, breathing canvas where art, music, and community collide. It’s spaces like these that nurture dreams and give ideas the room to breathe, to grow wild and unafraid.
The list of inspiring souls is endless, and every collaboration, every conversation, every shared wall and late night of creation has been a vital part of the tapestry. Without them, the journey wouldn’t be half as rich — or half as beautiful
Contact Info:
- Website: https://alfonso-apodaca-iii.square.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendaryarts?igsh=MWk0Z3FlZDU4aGx5eQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AzNKpihQG/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alfonso-apodaca-iii-92499513?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@legendaryarts105?_t=ZP-8vuKpQoaHM7&_r=1
Image Credits
Libby Apodaca
I’m always there, a breath, a spark,
When colors dance and voices start,
I weave the hues, I lift the tune,
I am the sun, the stars, the moon