Cartoonists Day 2016: Meet Nicaraguan Painter Behind Iconic Mural In Miami's Calle 8 [PHOTOS]

In the midst of all the Cinco de Mayo festivities, honoring the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, we celebrate another national day. Also celebrated annually on May 5 is Cartoonists Day, which according to Days of the Year, is the anniversary of the publishing of the first ever color cartoon, "The Yellow Kid" in 1895. Cartoons continue to have a major impact on our culture and are a main component of many publications. In honor of Cartoonists Day, we pay tribute to the Latino man behind one of Miami's iconic murals.

Meet "Archie Nica," the man responsible for the "Arte de las Americas" mural located in the heart of Miami's Calle 8 on 14th Avenue S.W. and 8th Street. As you can already imagine from his nickname, Archie was born in Nicaragua, where he kicked off his trajectory of nearly 50 years. Currently, he resides in Miami, where he continues building his empire adding a splash of color to the city.

His renowned "Arte de las Americas" mural is found on the outside walls of a local cafeteria in Miami and honors some of the biggest names in Latin history. With caricature-like portraits, the mural pays tribute to a group of legendary Cuban figures such as Celia Cruz, Tito Puente and Jose Marti. In the mural, locals and tourists can also come across other Latino figures such as Nicaraguan poet Ruben Dario, Mexican comedian Cantinflas and the late Queen of Tejano, Selena Quintanilla.

Prior to painting his remarkable mural ---which is a hot spot for anyone visiting Miami--- Archie began making a name for himself back home in Nicaragua. In fact, he is considered one of the pioneers of the graffiti movement in the Central American country. Born Luis Manuel Cuadra Peralta, this Nicaraguan painter dominates many painting techniques, such watercolor, tempra oil and ink, according to AquiNicaragua. He began to exhibit his art in local TV channels, including popular shows such as "Archie Nica Show," "Café de Artistas," Domingo Súper Gigantes" y "Sábados Juveniles." He has also showcased his work in other in countries such as Panama, Costa Rica and the United States.