Ernesto Yerena Montejano was born in the United States, near Mexicali, in the small border town of El Centro. While he went to school in the United States, he spent most of his free time with his family in Mexicali. This constant crossing of the border gave Ernesto a unique perspective—having access to the free education of the first world, combined with the cultural richness and authenticity of his Mexican heritage.

Ernesto began college at the age of 17, earning his BA in Graphic Design. He had the benefit of working as an artist assistant for Shepard Fairey of Obey Giant. In his own artwork, Ernesto mainly focuses on cultural issues within the Chicano community. He has worked at two of the largest art studios in Los Angeles—Self Help Graphics and Modern Multiples.

While Yerena identifies as Chicano, he also strongly identifies as Native/Indigenous to the North American continent, which is often reflected in his work. Highly recognized for his activism, Yerena is the founder and curator of the Alto Arizona Art campaign (2010) and a founding member of the We Are Human campaign (2009). His art brings political concerns to light, with subject matter that depicts cultural icons, rebels, and everyday people voicing their stance against oppression.