AUSTIN, Texas — There’s a sense of confidence for Michael Quiroz every time he finishes one of his murals. He began honing his artistic skills at an early age.

“I’ve always drawn since I was a kid. I would watch public access art shows, Bob Ross and practice since I was like, 3, 4 or 5,” said Quiroz.

When he was older, he worked a regular job with a background in electrical engineering. After he was laid off, Quiroz turned to painting murals full time. He adopted a can-do attitude where fear of the unknown took a back seat.

“Maybe people saying, ‘Oh, that doesn’t look good,’ or ‘You don’t have the talent,’ or like, ‘You can’t make a career out of this.’ Those fears are what prevent a lot of people from doing something like that,” he said.

Quiroz also tried the art of dancing. He didn’t stop there and later became a dance instructor.

“A lot of things limit us in our heads. Anybody can learn to dance. Anybody can learn to draw. It just takes practice and don’t be afraid,” said Quiroz.

When it comes to his murals, Quiroz touts his sense of accomplishment. 

“If other people can do it, then I can do it. If I see people that can do something, I can do it,” he said.