From Painting with Toothpaste and Coffee to Building a Life in Art
From Painting with Toothpaste and Coffee to Building a Life in Art
When I started painting in Cuba, I couldn't afford art supplies. I mixed watercolor with toothpaste, thinned oil paint with diesel, painted on blankets and cardboard boxes instead of canvases, and even used coffee as ink.
At 21, I arrived in the United States with just $650 in my pocket. I spent $600 on art supplies and the remaining $50 on a pair of shoes. I had no idea how challenging the journey ahead would be, but I knew one thing: I wasn't going to give up.
I may not have been the most talented, but I was determined to work harder, keep learning, and never stop improving. Today, my artwork has found its way into galleries, museums, and private collections.
I'm excited to share my story on The Art of Equilibrium Podcast with the wonderful Isabella Corine. We talk about my beginnings in Cuba, the challenges of building an artistic career in the United States, the lessons I've learned along the way, and the experiences that have shaped me as an artist.
I'm grateful for the opportunity to share this journey, and I hope my story inspires someone to believe that even the most impossible dreams are worth pursuing.
WATCH THE FULL CONVERSATION ON YOUTUBE & SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlJ9oH4IYGY&t=18s
Sometimes, all you need is a dream and the determination to make it happen.
Passion. Discipline. Strategy.
Through the Looking Glass
If you're in Charleston, South Carolina, be sure to check out Through the Looking Glass, an exhibition at The Vendue Gallery, featuring a wonderful collection of contemporary artworks.
On view November 6 through April 2.
I can't wait for you to see my work at the gallery!
Distorting Mirror I, Acrylic on Canvas, 52" x 38"
Derby Tradition I, Acrylic on Canvas, 52" x 38"
You're Going to Love These
Here's a quick glimpse into the creative process behind two of my latest pieces, When Pigs Fly and Victory Looks Good on Me!
Want to see more of my work come to life? Follow me on Instagram @cgdfrancisco
or visit my website:
Watch My CreativeMornings Talk:
“How I Became a Full-Time Artist”
“If you want nothing, do nothing. If you want something, go get it!”
I’m excited to share my CreativeMornings Louisville talk about my journey as a full-time artist and the passion, discipline, and strategy behind my career.
CreativeMornings is a global creative community that brings people together through inspiring talks in cities around the world.
Watch my talk here:
11 Artworks Now at
Leopold Gallery + Art Consulting!
I'm happy to announce that 11 of my artworks are now at the wonderful Leopold Gallery + Art Consulting! I hope you'll stop by the gallery and experience them in person!
Twenty Shades of Sunlight, Acrylic on Canvas, 25" x 55"
Unicorn of the Sea II, Acrylic on Canvas, 52" x 38"
Thank you, as always, for following my work, visiting my exhibitions, sharing my art with others, and being part of this journey. I’m incredibly grateful for your continued support!
With gratitude,
Carlos Gamez de Francisco
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