Carlos Gamez de Francisco
We are delighted to introduce Carlos Gamez de Francisco as the newest addition to Folly & Muse Gallery.
Born in post-revolutionary Cuba in 1987 to a Cuban-Spanish mother and a Cuban-American father, Carlos Gamez de Francisco's artistic journey is deeply rooted in his cultural heritage. Educated in a style heavily influenced by the Russian Academy, his passion for art ignited at the age of five, leading him to dedicate eight hours a day to painting by the time he turned fifteen. Today, his love for his craft sees him spending up to fifteen hours immersed in his work, a testament to his unwavering dedication and talent.
Cuban history serves as a guiding force in Gamez de Francisco's artistic exploration, allowing him to reinterpret storytelling and challenge the accuracy of historical narratives. This fascination with the past manifests in his art through the recreation of figures, scenarios, and personal stories, inviting viewers to engage with themes of memory and identity.
Arriving in the United States at the age of twenty-one with a mere $650 to his name, Gamez de Francisco embarked on a journey fueled by determination and perseverance. Investing the majority of his savings in art supplies, he embarked on a rigorous journey of self-improvement, committing himself to learning English and painting tirelessly through the night. His exceptional talent and tireless work ethic soon earned him recognition and artistic commissions.
Transitioning from portrait art to classical themes, Gamez de Francisco's work reflects a departure from traditional depictions of nobility and affluence. Instead, he focuses on individuals without titles or wealth, juxtaposing them against the opulent backdrop of regal furniture and elaborate attire. Infused with contemporary nuances such as sunglasses and magazines, his paintings transcend time, offering a captivating blend of historical and modern elements.
Drawing inspiration from his childhood memories in Cuba, Gamez de Francisco's paintings of over-decorated furniture evoke a sense of nostalgia and aspiration. His observations of pet culture in the United States inspired the creation of his series "Keep Your Pets Off Furniture," featuring dogs and even horses lounging on elaborately adorned couches—a playful commentary on indulgence and luxury.
Informed by the core values of the Enlightenment, Gamez de Francisco explores themes of power and hierarchy through the use of reason and symbolism. Rejecting conventional notions of perfection and beauty, he provocatively challenges established norms, manipulating historical contexts and reimagining reality through distorted imagery and insect motifs.
As we showcase Gamez de Francisco's captivating works at Folly & Muse Gallery, we invite you to embark on a journey of exploration and introspection. Through his art, he invites us to reconsider our perceptions of history, memory, and identity, offering a glimpse into a world where imagination knows no bounds.