Monica Valdez was born in San Jose, California 1986. She was not interested in art until she accidentally signed up for an art class in college, which changed her direction in what she wanted to study. Monica studied metal arts and painting at Evergreen Valley College, San Jose. Then, she transferred to San Jose State University where she continued painting and printing, and where she received her BFA. During her time in college she participated in public venues and fundraisers by doing live painting. Monica took part in painting murals at EVC childcare and Foster Community Family Shelter. She has displayed art in Backwater Galleries, Phantom Galleries, Café Pomegranate, New School Tattoo, Voodoo Lounge, and EVC Alumni.