Fox Friday: Fox Lane Freshman Steven Valencia Co-Founded an Illustration Company

Fox Friday is a series that highlights the accomplishments of students districtwide. We regularly feature the incredible things our students are up to — whether they are excelling academically, athletically or are quietly impressive.

Fox Lane High School’s Steven Valencia has been passionate about art for his entire life. His first year of high school is winding down and he has already co-founded an illustration company where he does work for small businesses and has contracted with a game studio.

We spoke to him to learn more about his work.

When did you start to get serious about your art?

I’ve always been fascinated by the arts, even as a child. After volunteering for events and programs as an illustrator and designer, I realized that art had become more than just a hobby—it had become a passion. It’s something that inspires me, drives me creatively, and motivates me to continue growing. Art is not only something I love, but something I hope to carry with me and pursue in the future.

Can you tell us about your business and how it got started?

As an artist, I’ve always been a highly organized person, constantly looking for the most efficient and effective ways to work. After taking on my first few illustration jobs, I found myself desperately scrambling to find a more efficient way to work with clients. Wanting to improve the professional side of my work, I partnered with CherryBlossom (an advisory firm) to help develop a stronger foundation for the business.

After months of experimentation, we founded Colour Coder, an illustration company focused on creating visuals for a wide range of clients. Today, we work with small businesses, online brands, and growing creators, helping bring their ideas to life.

We’re not just drawing. We’re illustrating futures.

What types of businesses have you worked with and what type of work have you done for them?

Currently, I am contracted with Doge Labs, a game studio that specializes in creating entertaining experiences for all ages. The studio has made about two projects with a third in the works. Their current projects have surpassed over a million players, and they plan to expand their empire in the future.

I work for Doge Labs as a principal concept artist and texture artist, working alongside my art director and colleagues. We work on creating impactful visuals that immerse players in the ultimate experience.

What are your hopes for your business in the future?

In the future, I hope to eventually work with larger brands and sort of build up my own in the process, becoming a known name in the industry.

What other art mediums are you interested in?

Aside from illustration, I also volunteer in graphic design, allowing me to use my creativity to support events and communities. I also enjoy painting, playing piano, and composing music, all of which help me explore different forms of artistic expression. I also regularly immerse myself in photography, which has improved my sense of composition, storytelling, and visual detail.

Do you think things you’ve learned through your art have helped you in other areas of your life?

I believe that art is the only path for self-expression. Art lets us show how we feel and see in a way that cannot be recreated. My art has not only helped me express myself, but it has also helped me identify who I am as a person. Art is really a journey of self-discovery, and that is why I so heavily recommend everyone try it at least once in their lives.

Is there anything else you think people should know?

From my understanding, we only live once. So whatever passions you may have, chase them. For this might be your only chance to show what you're really worth.

Thank you for reading my interview, and thank you to Jen Garry for getting my name out there. I hope you all can find the time to check me out on socials and my website.

See you on the flip side!