Max Emiliano Gonzales, also known by their artist name “GEMS”, can be classified as an activist, art educator, muralist, graffiti writer, printmaker, curator and more. Originally from the Southwest side of Chicago and raised in Latino communities, Max brings a unique perspective to Pittsburgh as a queer identifying, Chicano artist. Max was brought to Pittsburgh in 2012 to attend Carnegie Mellon University's Fine Art program on a full-ride Scholarship. By 2016 Max graduated with honors, secured multiple positions with the University, and was arrested as Pittsburgh’s most wanted graffiti artist. Max has gone on to develop a career as a practicing artist, muralist, curator, and art educator. Max has presented as a guest artist, lectured, and run workshops at locations including: PITT, CMU, Winchester Thurston High School, Youth Places, Assemble Pgh, The Environmental Charter School, The Warhol, and The Carnegie Library. Max is also a member of Boom Concepts, Flower House Gallery, Wicked Pittsburgh, HCUAP, and Pullproof Studios. Currently, Max works full time as an artist and art educator, specializing in muralism, seeking to give value to underrepresented voices, movements, and art forms to challenge any established socioeconomic barriers, elitism, or bigotry to redefine the role and importance of art.