12-Year-Old Artist Andres Valencia on His Inspirations & Selling His Paintings for a LOT of Money

12-year-old artist Andres Valencia talks about how he got started painting, one of his paintings selling for $200k, Frida Kahlo being one of his favorites, wanting to be known as his own artist, having a studio in his parents’ basement, and his new book “Painting Without Rules.”
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About Jimmy Kimmel Live:
Jimmy Kimmel serves as host and executive producer of Emmy® nominated “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” ABC’s late-night talk show. “Jimmy Kimmel Live” is well known for its viral video successes, with over 16 billion views and more than 19 million subscribers on the show’s KZbin channel. Some of Kimmel’s most popular comedy bits include Celebrities Read Mean Tweets, Lie Witness News, Halloween Candy KZbin Challenge, Jimmy and Cousin Sal pranking Aunt Chippy and music stars like Rihanna and Dua Lipa surprising Jimmy in the middle of the night.

[@Mr3DBob]

This young man has a terrific self confidence. He's one of the best guests to have been on the show.

[@JIM-ot4ws]

And a wisdom beyond his young years.

[@beenaplumber8379]

And just the right amount of humility. He seems like a very well balanced and otherwise ordinary kid who happens to be an artistic genius. Kudos to him, and kudos to his parents!

[@GinaHarrisToo]

Agree!

[@deewolf2931]

I agree. Seemed like Jimmy was trying to break his self confidence but it didn't work.

[@L.fantita]

Eso mismo pensé

[@GrantGelinasBrown]

Andres must have some very proud parents, not just because of the talent he possesses, but he's incredibly polite, composed and humble. I'd totally hang a piece of his work on my wall.

[@waltersalas1791]

His father is a high profile attorney named Lupe Valencia. Lupe is also the manager for boxers Ryan Garcia, Julio Cesar Chavez Sr and Jr, and used to be the attorney for Canelo Alvarez

[@sharrielee911]

​@@waltersalas1791oh wow so he's an entertainment lawyer/attorney that's awesome😊

[@moonkey537]

Agreed, his humbleness is greater than his painting skills 😂

[@moonkey537]

​@@waltersalas1791🤔 No wonder. That explains a lot.

[@rachellandry3116]

He has a marketing Dad with all kinds of connections in the BIG CLUB this child... might be a fraud. But he is good at copying modern art as it is already naive artwork. This child's naivete will be evident if he were asked to do foundational art... rather than mass produce large modern art knockoffs for father to market to his buddies in the CLUB. this is not a found child prodigy. he's a Golden Boy being marketed by Lupe.. his father is a real wolf... 🐺 dont be surprised if Golden Boy turns out to be another artworld fraud useful for laundering.

[@jregulatori4672]

I loved this segment. If you watch talk show hosts from the past, they often talk down to the kid or attempt jokes with a *wink wink* towards the audience. Like the child is a prop. Kimmel is a genuine good dad and just knows how to interview kids properly. Wish Andres the best of luck, it's refreshing to see 12 years olds come across as actual 12 year olds.

[@Nextburjalarab]

Imagine Kelly Clarkson interviewing this kid, so tell me about your work, oh first I painted a bus when I was 3 and it was the best bus painting of all time

[@lilinbatik]

I agree, this is a master class in how to interview a kid, which not a lot of adult journalists/talk show host is capable of doing. The kid might be a genius but if he's not the talkative kind then it's the interviewer's job to keep the conversation alive. And Jimmy is ready, always with a follow-up question that effortlessly comes out of him, avoiding any dead air. Kudos, Jimmy.

[@waryaawariiri1812]

Jimmy however talked to Mike Tyson as though he was a very slow learner. Watch his interviews with him.

[@pvw88]

You are spot on about Jimmy's skills interviewing this young artist, and keeping things flowing naturally.

[@profsacin]

Agreed. Much better than how I would imagine years back David Letterman would have been condescending, try make it funny at a kids' expense probably to be outsmarted.

[@user-xr8hy6em3d]

Blown away by his talent. He is delightful, genuine and a truly gifted child. What a pleasure to learn of him and his artwork.

[@evermoreart]

At 58 and still not realized as an artist, I'm kind of a little jealous! But children's art is my favorite! So I am very proud of him.👏🥰🧡

[@NewMessage]

"I have questions about where they're going...." He's goin' places.

[@ernestholloway9436]

Going places he already there.

[@meganann3876]

I laughed at that part too. Very talented young man is definitely going places.

[@MhLiMz]

Sounds like a fan of Bob Reese and Parker Zebell ;-)

[@GorGob]

I hope that 200k went straight into his own pockets. Not the daddy or manager BS thieves.

[@terriseaton3049]

Not bc of talent. Just a good Agent.

[@Jenny_Oblivion]

I’ll say it again, Jimmy is great at interviewing children. Whether they’re famous or not, it’s always a real conversation. ❤

[@adalzavala8298]

Suspiciously great at it 😭

[@BooksForever]

Excellent interview. Jimmy has an artistic insight that I didn’t expect. And this kid is definitely the real deal. What a joy!

[@wonderrob3225]

I do not like or believe in these fake cubist pictures. They have the outward appearance of cubism but they are a gimmick. However they are pretty good for an entitled little boy of his age.

[@naomiarram5187]

Jimmy's cartoons are incredible. You can find his artwork online.

[@agenciasimplify2591]

Jimmy is very talented

[@tonysmith5323]

Didn't know..gotta look it up

[@rachellandry3116]

Lupe Valencia's new Golden Boy project. This child... is marketed... to celeb connections of Dad. This boy.... is coached, directed, managed by DAD Big Club art fraud...

[@renereyes4999]

This young man is amazing! Quick-witted. Very mature and respectful. God bless him.

[@Leomerya12]

Quick-witted? Wuh?

[@user-xg8ue7wk7z]

The kid is 12 going on 35 and he handled this interview as he handles a paint brush: Spectacularly; truly a one in 10 million kinda human. Look out Banksy, this kid's coming for you.

[@ZiptiesAndButterflies]

Banksy is a hack. This kid is legit.

[@jdos5643]

Banksy art is ugly. I don’t like it. But I like this style of art.

[@katlis]

@@jdos5643 While Banksy's style isn't remarkable (using stencils and such), you have to admit the ideas are creative and thought-provoking.

[@L3ONARDO07]

@@ZiptiesAndButterfliesHe’s just copying Picasso

[@CarlosLosChapin62]

Banksy is awesome tfym or at least he was.

[@mikelytou]

How is this kid only 12 years old? Not just his paintings but his facial expressions, his mannerisms, his responses to the questions make it seem unbelievable.

[@dennisn3955]

Probably great parenting that nurture good talent and personality

[@MedicinalBlood]

You gotta be kidding…

[@susannpatton2893]

Some kids are raised differently

[@ReiverBlue1971]

Certain kids have some advantage in these kinds of areas ;)

[@Happyllama220]

He has a special brain ❤

[@gogotshi]

this kid is more eloquent funny and interesting than 90% of the grown ups that i ever meet before...

[@MedicinalBlood]

That’s weird af…

[@elainstill1671]

I understand that this is a great compliment to this young man but you really need to get out more and have conversations with people from all walks of life. Although, stay away from the weirdos that wear the American flag as clothing. 😂

[@EmpyreanLightASMR]

Kind of have to agree with others, repeating everything Kimmel says isn't eloquence lol. Nothing against "this kid", since so many in the comments seem to refer to him by his stature and not his name, Andres.

[@gogotshi]

@@elainstill1671 as a profesional mussician i often inetract with lots of people, almost as daily basis i do go out a lot..(more than i really want actually)..and as sad it can be is true, a little exagerated to make a point but mostly and sadly true.

[@gogotshi]

@@EmpyreanLightASMR he didnt repeat he was answering jimmy questions short,precise to the point, and funny sometimes are quality not common on most persons at his age.. wich is a kid..to convey my point i have to say kid instead of andres.. and it is valid. if you didnt understand well thats your problem..

[@davidthomas6094]

In addition to him being a great painter, it's apparent from his conversation that this is one high-IQ person. He's precise, deliberate, on top or even ahead of the interview game. Pretty astonishing.

[@DaveD1420]

Yup. People this gifted succeed in everything they attempt.

[@MaidenHelll]

He’s in complete control of his own brain…It’s quite impressive, as silly as that sounds- I’ve always felt like my inner voice is trying to trip me up or distract me

[@AA-wc3tw]

Having good parents makes all the difference. I guarantee he doesn't have parents like mine.

[@UncertainSurgeon]

@@AA-wc3tw bingo

[@luticia]

It‘s scripted!!

[@chrisdowdle9326]

This kid’s painting is next level at 12. Bravo kid!!!

[@marcies.5342]

Andres is quite delightful! I so enjoyed his interview on Jimmy Kimmel tonight (well, last night) that I immediately googled the show and watched it again! This young man was a breath of fresh air, and he is quite talented. Not only is Andres a painter, he has a book coming out titled 'Painting Without Rules'. It's available for pre-release purchase. It looks like perhaps a coffee table book. I am super impressed by this young man! Imagine - a sixth grader who has awesome talent as an artist (highest one of his paintings has been sold for $200,000) AND is a published author! I look forward to his future accomplishments!

[@thomthom6268]

Did you see the size of the book? Can he even pick it up? That's not a book. I think they used to call them tomes.

[@eluanharolds]

Flawless. He's definitely an old soul. How does he have that much words to put into a book that big? The kid is a genius.

[@coleengoodell7523]

This young man is an excellent example of not only having a great gift, but also excellent parenting. When you see it, feed it. Paying attention to what your child's passion and gifts are and giving them everything they may need to excel.

[@windjunky]

Kids like this give me just a tiny bit of hope for the world

[@Raskolnikov32]

Is the dad still hiring for a dishwasher?

[@loveforeignaccents]

LOL, for real!!

[@lisaogembo473]

🤣🤣🤣.... amen! I'm available

[@williamcolbert7828]

💙👍😁

[@AudieTheMastiff]

😂😂😂😂

[@Jenny_Oblivion]

👏🤣🤣

[@EmpyreanLightASMR]

Thank you Kimmel for this. He's been in the news for years (not that I was aware of that) and he was in the news again a few days ago-and suddenly he's here. More guests like this, less movie stars 😂

[@user-ip5dm6jf8k]

Jimmy works for ABC owned by Disney...do the math. Less movie stars!

[@AlxCVFX]

That kid is eloquent, smart, and extremely talented, he's going places for sure!

[@mikelytou]

Sorry, he isn't GOING places, he's already there.

[@AlxCVFX]

@@mikelytou Absolutely true! He’s going even higher then!

[@babilabub]

Talented and thoughtful kid with a sense of humour. Not bad !

[@pinkworld9384]

I am also pleased to know that Andres Valencia is of Mexican descent! Amazing talent! Verdaderamente un gran talento para el mundo! Felicidades querido Andres!♥️

[@JoshPlan]

Pleased? You realize “Mexican” is simply a nationality ..Mexican from Mexico. American from America. So on.. There’s no such thing as descending from a nation. Nations are human constructs as well. We are different colored humans is the truth 👍

[@wildone4804]

@@JoshPlanNot everyone knows that lol I would even dare to say 90% of Americans have no idea.

[@JoshPlan]

@@wildone4804 pure ignorance for most, yeah

[@OKay-ox3kh]

Clearly fully Spanish he is the product of Spaniards.

[@goldenquaarter]

That little boy made me proud with these paintings. Bro.

[@fionawilson6958]

Jimmy is so good with kids. Andres is amazing. I love his paintings. If I had the money I would certainly buy one. I love that he’s not arrogant and he has a great sense of humor. That was one of Jimmy’s best interviews.

[@mattgaming8717]

No lie, this kid really is an artist. I'm literally staring at the art letting it speak for itself. Beautiful piece. And yes. Argue for your money kid.

[@eg1197]

Jimmy does has the skill to interview anyone at all ages. Andres is a cute, wonderful, talented artist 🎨. I predict his future works being displayed in the gallery.

[@joannsilva4715]

This kid is amazing, so smart, so fumny, definitely an old soul! Truly a child prodigy! ❤

[@molly-blue7822]

Andres is a wonderful boy. He must have a family to match. The fact that they all exist in our world just makes me happy! 😊

[@cammieg4381]

Glad to be introduced to this young man and his artwork! 👍

[@the1khronohs40]

Wow! This kid is already set for life!? Absolutely gorgeous colors and artistic freedom! I’d love to have one or more of those paintings, but really, really can’t afford them! 🤯🤩

[@robertgandler3177]

The young man is truly born gifted and humble!

[@toddwatson4019]

Wow, he is remarkable. His natural talent and innocence put a smile on my face. Thank you 🙂

[@loandbehold5178]

That was the best interview!! This kid is amazing!

[@MsDebSteeves]

Absolutely amazing guest Jimmy. What an incredibly talented human. Can't wait to see more of his creations. Thank you!

[@peachesandpoets]

Great kid. Keep following your dreams. Thanks for the variety in guests, Jimmy.

[@JohnPullum]

What a great kid! So talented! His parents raised him right.

[@calibreeze4461]

Andres Valencia is an incredibly talented Soul. He is very thoughtful in his responses and carries himself very well. The level of maturity, integrity and wholesomeness is definitely amazing to witness. He is impressively calm and articulate alongside being more kind and humble than many people in the world with not even a quarter of his success; may he continue to prosper and inspire future generations to live out their dreams, embrace their creative potential and be supported monetarily for it.

[@SKinSKorea]

Kid is sharp and talented.

[@AA-gd8yw]

Makes me happy the fact that these kind of shows are bringing meaningful people and artists that can get a really good use of that attention for their craft, well done!

[@RubyDoobieScoo]

His work feels like a combination of Basquiat and Picasso without feeling derivative, seriously impressive, not just for his age.

[@srcarranza]

Fabulous booking and great interview of a wonderful young man. I can’t wait to see his realism phase.

[@robinhendrix66]

I know! I thought the same thing. I'll keep a look out for his next work. I love looking at good paintings.

[@bamboowomandancing]

Jimmy, you’re a natural with kids.

[@davids1inwestholl45]

This young man with his amazing, innate, natural talent has been one of the best interviews in a while on Jimmy's show. It's not b/c of the jokes, the puns and such. In fact, I think Jimmy was wanting this young lad to feel more comfortable and to just have an enjoyable conversation between the 2...in front of an intimate group of 400 studio audience members. Andres seems to have a very charming and disarming personality, with a healthy sense of confidence in his work. He presents as well beyond his young years. Outside of a few young teens that make it all the way to the Olympics, for example, you don't come across many gifted savants with such poise. I look forward to more good things from him. ¡Felicidades y buena suerte, Andres Valencia!

[@oreosk8ter]

This young man is 12 and he speaks more properly and carries himself way more than some grown adults!

[@jackierostow9537]

Andres Valencia is adorable and sweet. He must have wonderful parents, too. What a gem! Love to see kids like this on the show! Great interview Jimmy. We love your natural selection of questions. Also love when your kids are on the show. They are so cute, normal-nice, relatable. Love that!

[@motiemo]

This is what can happen when children aren't held back by their parent's finances. His parents are obviously wealthy enough to allow him to travel and pursue his interests without restrictions. Love that for him. Hope my kids will be able to do that.

[@angiehh516]

Oh goodness. This was refreshing. Such a talent.

[@finderkeeperrrs]

He's so handsome and talented. And so eloquent in his speaking. Can't wait to see more of his paintings in the future. All blessings and luck to you young man ❤

[@RachelTS]

What an amazing young kid. Kudos to him on such an amazing achievement. Most kids his age wouldn’t even dream of such things. And for him to have done such amazing art pieces, is mind boggling. His family and those close to him, must be proud to know such an amazing artist who is still of all places attending Middle School! Much continued success Andres!! You truly are an incredible artist. I love the pieces that you brought with you for the world to see on your appearance on Jimmy Kimmel. They truly are such amazing pieces of artistry. I must agree with Jimmy, and say that you must be a reincarnation of Picasso brought back to life.

[@ambroseavery5229]

Wow! What an incredible interview! Who would’a thunk that a 12 yr. old could inspire a 64 yr. old “starving-artist” like myself! Bravo!

[@pissant7867]

This kid is awesome!!! So talented 😊

[@jimtokheim1422]

I love the Frida painting! Great stuff, very talented.

[@SaraBryan-sw7ri]

I love how you address this topic with such honesty.

[@mikelytou]

I bot comment and 33 bot likes.

[@tonyquek6157]

Wow! He’s so gifted n talented! He will definitely be one of the greatest artist in future. If I have the money I would invest in a couple of his paintings, cause it will be worth a fortune in future. 🤭

[@deemiller5024]

I loved EVERYTHING about this interview. The incredible expression of art, how Andres handled the interview with charm, humility, and wit, and how Jimmy listened and asked great questions with great comedic timing. 💗 If I could buy one of his paintings, I would in a heartbeat💗

[@callycharles2515]

Andres art is impressive at any age. He's someone I want to keep and eye on so I don't miss any of his work. I'm going to preorder his book, what a gift it will make for my brother who is also an artist. BRAVO Andres!! Thank you Jimmy for having him on your show.

[@prospectnyc]

his paintings are incredible and he's got a clever personality! cool kid

[@friendly76]

What a cool and talented kid! Also, a lot of kids would be nervous to do an interview on TV, but he seems fine with it!

[@salliem424]

So talented and knows his worth. Parents did a great job raising such a polite young man.

[@RandyIce]

Wow not only is he an amazing painter at such a young age but he’s even written a book too!! Just mind blowing and awesome! God bless this kid!

[@CarolEdwards-uw9jj]

You definitely deserve more recognition for this!

[@xLadyBoss07x]

That’s my coworker’s nephew!! He has been telling us and showing off his art for a few years now. 😊

[@bYtealiEnSzen]

His composure and wit are impressive.

[@Whatsamacallit911]

Very talented young man, smart and witty, too. He's going places. Lucky parents.

[@OLITREV]

FINALLY A YOUNG ARTIST INTERVIEW I WONDER IF THERE ARE MORE OUT THERE IM MISSING

[@ME-hh9fb]

A couple of years ago, he had on a young girl, a little older maybe, who was also an art prodigy. Exciting to see such amazing young talent! ❤🎨🖌❤

[@morbidmanmusic]

No, you're just missing grammar and punctuation. The all caps thing isn't helping anything either.

[@OLITREV]

@@ME-hh9fb that’s genuinely so rad! I REALLY need to check it out cause I believe I remember the artist you’re speaking of! I think she did semi realism if I’m guessing correctly with animals and such?

[@EmilioVillegas]

I wish him all the success he deserves, his paintings are really cool

[@moonkey537]

But are they $200,000 cool? I personally do not think so 😂

[@corbanwoosley6891]

​@@moonkey537 People have paid far more for much MUCH less in the art world. If I was affluent enough to buy from a gallery I'd definitely fork over that much to have one of his paintings.

[@ktelbohrs]

Kudos to his parents! Well done raising such a talented kid. ❤❤❤

[@andrewb445]

Andres Valencia - Such a remarkable man child. Confidence, poise, and outstanding talent. Thank you for this interview Jimmy. This is a very refreshing moment. One day someone should interview you for about an hour. Not Seth, Colbert or your other colleagues on night television. I mean a serious interview so we can see the other side of you. You are a master of your craft Jimmy.

[@mayatara1980]

It's hard not to think of him as a potential Picasso reincarnation. Even before the mention, I was already thinking his paintings have such strong Picasso vibes.

[@josephito27]

Picasso had a trajectory, you can't just jump straight to this style and claim to be the next Picasso, it makes absolutely 0 sense.

[@larrysorenson4789]

We moved across the country when I was 14. In those days parents did not consider kids feelings that much. I spent a year in our new basement painting. I was horribly depressed and sad. About 100 paintings were made. Gradually I made friends and came out of that shell and got on with life.

[@veganleigh4817]

All that talent. And he's so confident and polite. Amazing.

[@Xaniker]

This kid has a sense of humor that rivals most adults

[@tgnben]

I've been following him on tiktok for a while! It's cool to see Jimmy bringing on new talent who aren't actors or musicians

[@mlg7728]

What a talented sweet young artist. Jimmy's interview was the best. So kind.

[@ameersahabfaruki3215]

What a well balanced, really educated little gentleman. Very quick on the uptake. Brilliant mind. Loved the interview. Great parents.

[@belamoure]

So well grounded, natural no pretention in this kid! Jimmy Kimmel handled that interview superbly with respect and humour. I had a great time thank you.

[@lashendawest7509]

We love andres Valencia

[@snwest8751]

PROTECT THIS BOY AT ALL COSTS!!!! Lets hope his generation follows in his footsteps! His paintings are incredibly interesting, he really is a prodigy! Can't wait to see how his art progresses over time

[@tanzoniaflakes5068]

This lil guy did such a good job at this interview. Very impressive 👏🏿 👌🏿

[@Pokadot101]

I really like his paintings.

[@IreneGreenKwon]

Wow, that's crazy, Who would think that a Year6 boy painted? He had an amazing talent.

[@laurahykes9206]

What an amazing boy!!! So well mannered and bright!!! Jimmy was great with him too. Thank you for showing us this great boy and his talent!!! What a treat this was!!!

[@tas22222]

wow just wow ! born with a natural talent ! Imagine the parents watching his talent grow and think wtf is going on? So amazing ! congrats Andres ! ANother segment would have been wonderful talking to his family, Well done Jimmy you are so good with your younger guests !!

[@wanderingyoutube]

Jimmy is a Dad interviewing a kid his children's age, knowing that the conversation is to both get information and responses from the kid and to provide a bit of education to the kid so that he can learn and benefit from the interaction. He knows that at that age, you can't be sure which interaction is going to make an impression

[@peterdolan-green1017]

If ever I had a feel of being inadequate, it was after watching this segment with Andres. While his style of art isn't my personal taste, what I can do is fully appreciate the effort & talent put into his work. I also felt he handled bi.self quite well with Jimmy (not that Jimmy would have been difficult with him because it was obvious he knows how to converse with a younger person).

[@celiamaness8856]

What a sweetheart! Very talented young man! Hats off to him!

[@velikovskysghost]

Great young boy, polite, courteous, humble, and not so full of himself, great paintings!

[@taranvainas]

He is a worthy heir to centuries of excellent Spanish painting. We are facing a genius.

[@michellem-s1108]

What an amazing talent and temperament… great sense of humor!

[@Monika-mh2je]

I like how Jimmy making a conversation with him. Amazingly talented kid. 👏

[@lyssabloom3964]

I’m so proud of this kid. Amazing creative mind

[@Mandrake591]

This was a great segment, I hope he has a great life, he’s certainly off to a splendid start!

[@OohGreat]

*What a great kid* 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@MaidenHelll]

I’m excited to see what this kid can do as he gets older. I hope he continues to thrive and be his own person. It’s so refreshing to see a young person who isn’t struggling to be anything just happy to be doing what he loves

[@jostsomuan8012]

Wow, I'm amazed at how good Jimmy is at interviewing people. He's just funniest back-to-back, jokes on jokes!

[@joat_dad4090]

Hell, I'm still stuck trying to improve my crayon drawings for my kid.

[@carollewellen5413]

That is one really smart and cute kid.❤

[@tavifagascon]

This. Is. My. Favorite. Interview. Ever.

[@erikperry1460]

Put some respect on my boy Andres Valencia 🎉🎉🎉👐🏽👏🏽👐🏽👏🏽👐🏽👏🏽

[@AP-ev3yu]

I want one so bad!

[@yvonnemar77]

So do I. 😊

[@mikelytou]

A 12 year old artist prodigy?