Raised on the banks of the Rio Grande Loíza and its estuary, Juan grew up inspired by the beauty of nature, especially the mangroves, the river, and the sea. He also grew up inspired by cultural manifestations. Juan saw the picturesque and symbolic character of the vejigante as a defense of the magical town of Loíza. Juan began to carve vejigantes, following in the footsteps of the master artisans of Loíza. Juan Pablo, in addition to carving Vejigante masks, started his artistic work at the age of 13, cutting hair and making designs with a razor, machine, and scissors.