We sat down with new gallery artist Luis Garcia Nerey to discuss his background, memorable responses to his work, recent activities and more!
1. What is your background? How does it inform your art?
My family migrated to the US from Cuba in 1968. I was born in Puerto Rico and raised for most of my life in Miami, Florida. I attended New World School of the Arts in Miami and Long Island University in New York.
2. What ideas do you return to regularly in your art?
I enjoy making pieces that invite viewers to try and interpret the work based on their own personal experiences.
3. Who or what are your main influences? What inspires you?
I do not have a particular artist that inspires me; rather, I am inspired by everyday life and the human experience.
4. What process, materials, techniques, etc., do you use to create your artwork?
I am a multidisciplinary artist. I use all sorts of materials, including acrylic paint, oil paint, paper, wood and found materials.
5. What does your studio look like?
I have a 1,500 square foot studio space in Miami. It’s an open space which is divided into a painting area and a woodwork area.
6. What is an artist tool you can’t live without?
A spackle knife!
7. What memorable responses have you had to your work?
Early on in my career, a family that had bought one of paintings told me my painting hung in their dining room. Every day during breakfast they would talk about it with their kids and it presented great conversations between them. They loved it and thanked me because it bonded them as a family. It made me realize the presence my art can have in people’s everyday lives.
8. What are you currently working on?
I’m currently working on an abstract portrait series.
9. Why do you make art?
I make art because it makes me happy. It engages me, it inspires me and it makes me a better person.
10. Anything else you'd like to mention?
This past year I had my first solo museum show at The Coral Springs Museum of Art. It was a great accomplishment for me since I filled the entire 17,000 square foot museum with paintings, sculptures and installations. I also was awarded the Green Space Initiative grant this past year by the Green Family Foundation.