Spectrum Miami turns 15—and it’s bigger, bolder, and more electrifying than ever. With 250+ galleries and artists, the fair sits alongside its sister event, Red Dot Miami, forming a powerhouse duo at the heart of Miami Art Week.

Celebrating local and global talent, Spectrum Miami brings the art world to life with special programs, site-specific installations, and artists from Florida, across the U.S., and around the globe.

This five-day event crackles with energy, spotlighting discovery, innovation, and its signature Spotlight Program—which this year honors a curated group of distinguished gentlemen art professionals whose passion and vision continue to shape the art world.

Alejandro Robles – Booth 1215

Miramar, Florida

https://www.alejandrorobles.cl/

Alejandro Robles is a Chilean-Spanish artist who originally trained as an architect but found his creative calling in fine art. His work features clean compositions, clear linear structures, and visually precise forms, often balancing between abstraction and figuration. Robles’s art is an ongoing exploration of structure, visual order, and expressive restraint.

Alex Lanier – Booth 905

Miami, Florida

https://www.alexlanierart.com/

Alex Lanier is a contemporary digital artist, illustrator, and fine art creator whose work fuses realism, imagination, and narrative storytelling. Lanier is best known for his richly detailed digital paintings that explore culture, history, and fantasy through a cinematic lens. Lanier’s art often highlights heroic figures, spiritual themes, and Afrofuturist influences, blending historical reverence with futuristic vision.

Antoinette Schultze – Booth 1601

Eliot, Maine

https://antoinettepschultze.com/

Antoinette Schultze’s sculptures evolve from her perception of relationships—her connection to nature, to people, and to the materials she uses. Each piece combines two, three, or more materials, relying on their interplay to convey expression and beauty. The emotions conveyed through the sculpture’s form are further enriched by the symbolic colors she selects for the glass.

Bula Barua – Booth 1401

Clearwater, Florida

https://bulagallery.com/

Bula Barua is an award-winning contemporary artist and the creator of Blown Glass on Canvas, a groundbreaking art form that fuses traditional painting with luxury materials including artist-blown glass, 24-karat gold, precious gems, and raw pigments. Her luminous masterpieces shimmer and evolve with the light, creating jeweled surfaces that invite viewers into a world of awe, beauty, and emotional connection.

Charlotte Fonne – Booth 1001

Miami Beach, Florida

https://charlottefonne.com/

With two decades as a film and documentary editor, Charlotte Fonne refines the art of visual storytelling—combining images to reveal deeper meaning. She describes her work as cinematic scenes woven into a single composite, uncovering hidden details and connections that bring memory to life. Her narrative-driven approach bridges the present with echoes of the past, drawing inspiration from Impressionist, Cubist, and Surrealist masters.

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Art Business News: Introduce yourself — who you are and what your vision as an artist is?

Alan Goldberg: I am Alan Goldberg and I am a photographer and photo artist. I have been involved with photography since I was just a baby. My vision is to bring the things we see in everyday life — whether they are objects used every day or stunning landscapes — into the realm of art through the use of bright colors and my perspective.

ABN: What is your background?

AG: I have always had a camera around most of my adult life. My one mentor said if you want to become good just “shoot and shoot and shoot” and so I did. In 2010, I started to take photos of bands with a shirt pocket camera, then after a few years moved up to a DSLR Nikon. During that time, I took lots of photos of mushrooms and still do. My portfolio is very diverse and includes cars, landscapes, models, musicians and flowers.

ABN: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

AG: My work philosophy is one that I am carrying on from one of my mentors, Dr. Victor P. Satinsky. He had a plaque behind his desk that read “publish or perish.” I can sit at my desk for hours every day creating. My photos talk to me about where to go or how I think they should look. By the way, there are only three photos of Dr. Satinsky on the Internet. Two are from his WWII military days and the third I am proud to say I took of him when I was in my 20’s. I go out with my camera and take a few different lenses.  I am also not afraid to experiment with infrared, filters, and unique angles.

ABN: What artist(s) inspire you?

AG: I am inspired by the great Masters. Although I have no formal education or training in the art world, I rely on the deeply implanted nature of man expressed by Carl Jung.  I study the photos of Ansel Adams and the effects artists bring to the table of civilization. I strive to create new art and not copies or variations. I strive to be different.

ABN: What is the best advice you’ve received?

AG: Not to listen to harsh critics, to be myself, and be relentless. Also, to produce a great amount of work and never accept the word “can’t” or “don’t”.

ABN: When you are not working, where can we find you?

AG: I am still teaching middle school science after having retired a few years ago. I use my photos to show my students what the rest of the world looks like or to illustrate scientific principles.

ABN: What have you done recently that enhanced you as an artist?

AG: I pulled on my earlier background of working in the garment industry and created a line of women’s cruise and casual wear. I worked in the apparel business for about 15 years while I was raising my family and before becoming a teacher.

ABN: How is exhibiting at Spectrum Miami important to you and what do you expect to achieve by exhibiting?

AG: Exhibiting at Spectrum Miami has been the largest show I have exhibited. I have met some amazing artists, publishers, and gallery owners. It has also made me strive to be a better artist. I have also had my art at galleries in the following locations Palma, Berlin, Zug, Basel, Athens, Paris, Venice, Grenada, and Dubai — but nothing beats the thrill of Spectrum Miami and being with people.

ABN: Any plans for 2026? Where will your creativity take you?

AG: Creativity has no bounds!  It may at times be blocked at times, but I have always had periods of my greatest creativity after a break up of a relationship. Having just gotten divorced, I use the words of my ex-wife used to demean my art to drive me on to further heights. “And what are you going to do with all your photos?” has given me motivation to expand my success. I have been a part of podcast interviews, publications, and photographing musical talent, and have been commissioned to create art from my photos of them.

Two musicians I have worked with, Tito Puente Jr. and Artimus Pyle of Lynryd Skynyrd, are both now good friends — and my photos of them are for sale.

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A curated group of gentlemen art professionals

Spectrum Miami, now celebrating its 14th year, is where contemporary art meets the extraordinary. Featuring works by over 250 exhibiting galleries and artists, the fair is located adjacent to its sister event, Red Dot Miami, creating a dynamic duo in the heart of Miami’s art scene. Spectrum Miami highlights the vibrant local and global art landscape through special programs and site-specific exhibitions, with participants spanning the Florida region, the U.S., and beyond.

This five-day fair offers an electric atmosphere of discovery and engagement, enhanced by its signature Spotlight Program. This year, the Spotlight honors a curated group of distinguished gentlemen art professionals, celebrating their passion for art and their innovative contributions to the field.

Gerard Frank – Booth 1000
Fort Walton Beach, Florida
https://gerardfrank.art

Gerard Frank is a prominent contemporary artist known for his remarkable blend of realism and impressionism. Frank uses mediums such as oil, acrylics, and mixed media to portray the spirit of metropolitan environments and the subtle nuances of human interaction. His celebrated pieces, such as Directional Glance and Contemporary Times, demonstrate his outstanding ability to depict the interplay of light and shadow, resulting in compelling and immersive situations.

Nikolai Petrov, Art Petrovik – Booth 804
Ontario, Canada
www.artpetrovnik.com

Nikolai Petrov’s wood sculpture exemplifies the artist’s mastery in transforming raw timber into evocative forms. Each piece reflects a harmonious balance between intricate detail and bold, sweeping lines, capturing both the essence of natural elements and the complexity of human emotion. Petrov employs traditional carving techniques, enhanced by a contemporary aesthetic, to create sculptures that resonate with viewers on multiple levels. The use of natural oils highlights the wood’s inherent beauty, allowing light and shadow to play across the surface, adding depth and movement. This artwork not only showcases Petrov’s technical skill but also invites contemplation and connection with the organic world.

Mauricio Malagutti – Booth 1016
Orlando, Florida
www.malagutticreations.com

Malagutti, born in São Paulo, Brazil, is a visual artist renowned for his dynamic three-dimensional artworks. His creations often feature mixed media on wood panels and canvases, incorporating materials such as resin, clay, and wood. Malagutti’s pieces are characterized by vibrant colors, intricate textures, and fluid forms, reflecting his deep understanding of shapes and volumes.

Erick Mota – Booth 1107
Freehold, New Jersey
www.erickmotaart.com

Having a great philosophical and introspective awareness of the human experience, Erick Mota is a visionary artist whose approach to the canvas is propelled by his comprehension of the human experience. With each stroke of the brush, he invites viewers to embark on a trip through the various elements of humanity, diving into the unbridled power of emotions and the influence that culture has on the formation of our characters. Through his art, Mota explores the complexities of the world around him, transcending the bounds of visual expression to produce pieces that serve as powerful testaments to his unrelenting pursuit for knowledge and self-discovery as seen in his piece Alicia.

Russell Scott, Modest Art 88 – Booth 1307
Los Angeles, California
www.modestart88.com

Russell Scott is an innovative artist whose work showcases a unique blend of exploration, style and vibrant colors. His pieces often explore a theme of abstract rhythmic visual experiences that evokes emotions. Utilizing mediums such as acrylic and oil paint. Scott creates compelling visuals like his Super Powers piece that engage and inspire viewers. His dedication to craftsmanship and innovation has earned him recognition in galleries in the US and abroad, making his artwork a distinctive presence in the contemporary art scene.

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Ashley Joan Art – Booth 1214

The Human Condition: An Artistic Exploration by Ashley Joan

Drawing from the intriguing question of what it would look like if our emotions were made visible, Ashley Joan crafts art that delves into the intricate relationship between emotional and physical experiences. Utilizing a layered approach, her paintings meld evocative imagery with compelling human portraits, aiming to ignite conversations about external appearances and internal emotional complexities.

Her choice of subject matter varies, often reflecting her emotional state during the early conceptual stages of her work. Sometimes, she explores the microcosm of human cellular structure to evoke emotional responses. At other times, she incorporates elements like seascapes to demonstrate how our environment influences our mental state. Given the ever-changing nature of human emotions, Ashley finds herself with an endless reservoir of inspiration for her art.

Carolina Vargas Reis – Booth 1122

Artistic Alchemy: Melding Texture, Color, and Emotion

Born into a Colombian family where traditional professions reigned, she initially followed a path into engineering and finance before relocating to Canada and answering the innate irresistible drive to create art.

Abandoning a successful finance career, Carolina embraced her true calling—painting a unique reality through a multidisciplinary approach. Her artwork – whether in the form of paintings or photographs – serves as an emotional and social commentary, incorporating a medley of characters and influences that have touched her life. She experimented with a range of materials and textures, from paint and wax to collage, driven by a dedication to explore and portray the complexities of human experience.

Justin Ruby – Booth 1312

Elevating art to new dimensions, Justin Ruby is a groundbreaking artist from Pennsylvania who merges contemporary culture with traditional portraiture through an innovative approach. Specializing in collaged portraits crafted from deconstructed sneakers, Justin offers a fresh perspective on consumption and identity in today’s society.

His work delves deep into our collective psyche, examining how material goods shape our self-concept. Though primarily using sneakers as the medium for his collage work, Justin has also integrated materials as diverse as Louis Vuitton fabrics and Tootsie Pop Wrappers, capturing the zeitgeist in every piece.

Kushiani Jayasinha – Booth 1109

Kushlani Jayasinha is a unique talent in the art world, born and raised in Sri Lanka during challenging social times. Her artistic journey is as multifaceted as her background, blending her Buddhist upbringing with her tech-savvy career in Silicon Valley and her scholarly pursuits in physics.

While her work may appear abstract, there’s an undeniable scientific undertone; each piece reflects her conscious consideration of physical properties. The resulting art strikes a unique balance: it’s both tactile and dreamlike, offering viewers a truly unique sensory experience — whether it’s an ethereal coastal mist, a distant city shrouded in fog, or a serene body of water.

Monica Arche – Booth 1114

A Life Sculpted in ArtBorn in San Juan, Puerto Rico due to her parents’ forced exile from Cuba, Monica Arche grew up in Miami, Florida. She hails from a distinguished line of Cuban artists. Her paternal grandfather, Jorge Arche, and great-uncle, Aristides Fernandez, are both significant figures in Cuba’s modern art movement and are today regarded as Cuban Masters.

From a young age, Monica displayed an insatiable creative drive, evolving into a prolific artist committed to generating an expansive body of work throughout her lifetime. Fueled by an irrepressible inner force, Monica has devoted her life to the continuous act of artistic creation. She currently resides in Miami, Florida, where she continues to make significant contributions to the art world.

For tickets to Spectrum Miami 2023 click here.

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DENISE BUISMAN

Through her urban, hand-layered mixed media paintings Denise Buisman Pilger (the Artist Abroad) evokes memories and reconnects her audience to precious moments in time. As a frequent globetrotter, she has called Amsterdam, Fort Worth, Montréal and Nagoya home, taking each relocation as an opportunity to explore the world and gather inspiration. Exhibiting and selling her work prolifically in North America, Europe and Asia, Denise has proudly exhibited her work at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris, the Artist Project, the New York Art Expo, the Toyota Municipal Museum of Art and galleries in New York, Montréal, Ottawa, Toronto, Nagoya, Okazaki and Gifu.

 Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: This might surprise you, me being an artist and all, but I’m a very structural and organized person which is very evident in the way my art is created. My process is very structured, mixed media memory scapes go through a variety of distinctly different stages. I like to work in a series of 4-6 pieces at once, although I occasionally get over-excited when creating compositions, I remember a time when I juggled 15 new paintings in my studio all at once. I like to finish a stage on every panel in the series before moving on to the next stage of the process which can lead to some creative use of space at times. 

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: I’m inspired by my direct peers, I love going to local gallery exhibitions to see what everyone is up to and at shows I always make it a point to walk the floor at least once to see the art, I always pick up a few new people to keep up with. I’m not necessarily inspired by an artist’s general style but more by little details in their work. 

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: “Don’t care about what other people think about you” As a chronic people pleaser this is advice that I have to internalize on a daily basis, one day I hope to achieve this.

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you?

A: This will be my first time exhibiting my art in Miami during Art Basel week, it means an entirely new audience to introduce my work to and I am excited to meet them. 

ERICK MOTA

Erick Mota is a visionary artist whose approach to the canvas is fueled by a profound philosophical and introspective understanding of the human experience. With each stroke of the brush, he invites viewers on a journey through the diverse facets of humanity, delving into the raw power of emotions and the shaping influence of culture on our personalities. Through his art, Erick fearlessly explores the complexities of the world around him, transcending the boundaries of visual expression to create pieces that serve as powerful testaments to his unrelenting quest for knowledge and self-discovery.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: I believe art is an idea about something in the form of an idealized interpretation, and since I am very introspective, I like to analyze a lot of things. I like to create art, but I also hope to inspire and provide people with something to think about. When I create art, I want the work to reflect many expressions of life, an assembly of emotions, and to capture whatever lies within my heart, mind, and soul, that words cannot express the same way. With each painting, my goal is to capture those emotions and make the audience see, feel, and think through their own set of emotions.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: My father has been my biggest inspiration. He is my favorite artist and as a kid, I had the unique experience of watching each of his artistic creations from beginning to end. It was mystifying to me and helped to ignite an interest in creativity and expression. My father created works of art for the family and himself, rarely showing his work to anyone other than family and close friends. I respected his humility, but at the same time, my family wished the world would see a glimpse of his artwork that captured a wide range of themes. I would describe his art as aesthetic, creative, and harmonious. While he mainly works with acrylic paint, he can be considered a mixed-media artist, as he uses a variety of different materials to create unique visual art. In addition to acrylic paint, my father has used tree branches, seashells, sand, metal, paper, etc. to make artwork. One of my favorites of his is a NYC street scene with the Empire State Building in the background that he made entirely out of newspaper clippings. The one medium he hasn’t chosen to use is oil paint, which is why I chose to, challenge myself with the lessons I learned from just observing him.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: The best advice I received came from a prolific art coach a few years ago. At the time, I had a lot of self-doubt about starting a business as an artist because I was a self-taught artist with no formal art training. Most of what I knew came from observing my father create art as a child. I would find myself scared to even attempt certain paintings or compare my abilities to other artists. The art coach helped me in gaining confidence and becoming more comfortable as an artist. She is instrumental in teaching me the business side of art, helping me to break barriers regarding self-doubt and rejection, and helping me grow as an artist. The advice she gave me at the time was that I needed to embrace how uniquely we are designed as artists, and no one asked us to become an artist. Therefore, daring me to use my artistic voice to impact the world and create life, forgetting about my lack of formal art training and the critique of others, but rather focus on growth and consistency. Her words stuck with me and helped me to keep creating meaningful art.

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you?

A: Exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 is special to me. I exhibited at Art Expo New York earlier this year and this is my first time at Spectrum. I love being a part of something with some of the greatest talent throughout the entire world. I am excited to meet directly with art lovers and art collectors and get immediate reactions about each painting I exhibit, as well as network with other artists.

GASTON CARRIO

Gaston Carrio is an abstract painter and sculptor with career experience as an architect and designer. His artwork employs foundations of aluminum, steel, canvas, fiberglass, polycarbonate, wood, and paper, upon which he implements self-derived techniques combining oils, acrylics, aerosols, alkyd paint, inks, charcoal, graphite, oil pastels, welding residues, pigmented silicones, urethane, sand, cement, lacquers, and resins.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: We should never stop learning and we should always try new things. In my life and in my career, there has always been a fire, a passion, that constantly drives me to seek out knowledge and reinvention. 

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: I am inspired by many artists in a number of varying disciplines, but I would say I draw the most meaningful inspiration from Anselm Kiefer, Joan Mitchell, and Cy Twombly

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: The best advice I’ve received is from the late Steve Jobs, founder of Apple: “You can’t connect the dots looking forward, you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something. Your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. Because, believing that the dots will connect down the road will give you the confidence to follow your heart, even when it leads you off the well worn path, and that will make all the difference.”

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you?

A: Participating in Spectrum Miami 2023 offers me yet another chance to showcase my most recent work to the public within a professional context. This event not only grants access to valuable media tools for enhanced exposure and outreach to a broader audience—thereby raising public awareness—but it also marks another incremental stride towards strengthening a forward-thinking mindset.

JENNIFER JONES

Jennifer Jones grew up in Eastern Pennsylvania. This quiet suburban hamlet coupled with its proximity to New York City provided fertile ground for the young woman’s imagination. Jennifer started studying ballet at the age of 3. Competitive figure skating followed shortly. In addition to these physical pursuits, she began sculpting in her early teens earning a scholarship to continue her fine art studies. A formally trained ballet dancer en pointe, and an award-winning tap dancer until an auto accident at 17 cut both her dance and skating careers short. Injury may have limited her prospects but didn’t stop her quest for kinetic self-expression.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: Do what moves you. Do it for yourself even if it’s not the most popular choice. In art and in life. This impacts the way I do art. I’m less harsh on myself when I work, the work I do I’m less critical of how it looks when it’s finished. For me it’s all about the movement and the release of emotions. The dance moves the paint around the canvas. When I try to do something for public consumption it’s not authentic and just feels like a total fail.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: This is a very difficult question for me and we could be here all night. I’m really moved by music. If I need inspiration I turn on something and just crank it. I don’t think my technique would work without music. There are many fine artists out there that will randomly spark an idea or a color choice. I do have a favorite painting however I saw it once online about 15 years ago then again in either LACMA, The Getty or The Met. I can’t recall. I don’t know the name of the artist or the title and it haunts me that I can’t find it online. Maybe I should paint a bad version of it and do a google visual search. 

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: My former manager and dear friend who passed away suddenly last year gave me a lot of great advice. The one that sticks out the most is ” just show up every day, showing up is 90% of the gig. go to your studio and paint even if you don’t feel like doing it” That was some good advice, I think he got that from Dolly Parton.

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you? 

A: This is a chance for me to meet people in the art world; like-minded artists, future collectors, and galleries. I have the chance to share my passion and possibly inspire some along the way.

LEILANI EUPHROSYNE (BEATE BÖER)

35 wonderful years Leilani-Euphrosyne traveled the world as a flight attendant for Lufthansa. She was always fascinated by foreign people, their cultures, and above all by the world’s most diverse artistic genres. Her special interest however has always been painting. As a flight attendant, Leilani was very close to the sky. Now she paints to experience the sky down on earth. “When painting I feel free as a bird and blissful as a child! Besides all I love to live this blissfulness showing in my artworks also in every little cell of my body. I start to focus on this already in my morning meditation to create the vibes of my day and the melody of my life!” She is a real globetrotter who discovers herself while painting.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: Go through the world with love, light, and floral scent in your heart! Enjoy the lightness and dance frequently and wildly because joy and ecstasy are the secrets of the universe! Dancing is exactly what I do before I start to come into my creative flow and to bring my acrylic candy colors to my canvas and show my soul! 

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: Frida Kahlo, Picasso, and Mary Lovelace O’Neal.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: Go out into the world and show your soul! “One of the most calming and powerful actions you can do to intervene in a stormy world is to stand up and show your soul. Soul on deck shines like gold in dark times!“ (Source: Clarissa Pinkola Estes)

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you? 

A: Spectrum Miami is one of the most exciting art exhibitions in the world to see and to show fine art of all countries in the world! I am so thrilled and feel so honored to be part of it! Aloha Mahalo, thanks to heaven! This makes me so happy and I can’t wait to show my paintings with the special Aloha Vibes at this fancy and absolutely extraordinary place in Sunshine State Florida!

MARGARITA VIGNE

Margarita Vigne, originally from Colombia, completed her bachelor’s degree in fashion and graphic design before making South Florida her home. Her art is a captivating fusion of materials, colors, and techniques that breathe life into her creative vision. She enjoys experimenting with various textures, colors, and patterns to craft unique mixed media collage pieces that blend expressionism with intricate abstraction. Margarita uses her education as a compass of her work and her imagination.

Her talent lies in transforming of everyday materials into beautiful and meaningful art. Margarita’s bold use of colors and intricate details transport viewers to a vibrant world full of energy and life. Her art encourages viewers to pause, explore the elaborate details, and savor the moment, providing a brief escape from the fast-paced nature of contemporary life. With endless creative possibilities, each of her distinct pieces often carries a unique background narrative or a wellspring of inspiration.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: My work philosophy is centered on art as a dynamic expression of my imagination and emotions. It drives me to constantly innovate, create emotionally resonant pieces, provide a moment of reflection in our fast-paced world, tell unique stories through my art, and embrace diversity in materials and themes. This philosophy is the guiding force behind my creative process, ensuring that my art remains vibrant and meaningful.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: Collage stands as a significant milestone in Cubism’s history and, consequently, in the broader context of 20th-century modern art. It’s why Braque and Picasso hold a special place among my favorite artists, as their work inspires me to craft my own collage artwork.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: The best advice I’ve received for my art practice includes embracing fearless experimentation, seeking inspiration everywhere, maintaining a regular art-making routine, and emphasizing patience and perseverance despite creative challenges. These insights have been crucial in developing my unique artistic voice and navigating the highs and lows of my artistic journey.

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you? 

A: Spectrum Miami is a platform that will allow me to share my creative voice and unique perspective with a diverse audience. It’s a chance to connect with fellow artists, art enthusiasts, and collectors, fostering invaluable connections and feedback that will further shape my artistic evolution. Spectrum Miami 2023 represents a significant milestone in my artistic career, affirming the importance of art as a means of communication, expression, and connection with others. It’s a moment to celebrate how far I’ve come and to look forward to the limitless creative possibilities that lie ahead.

TABLINUM CULTURAL MANAGEMENT (FEATURE GIUSEPPE GIANNOTTI)

“I am Giuseppe Giannotti, an Italian-Swiss journalist, born on 15th March 1954 in San Benedetto del Tronto (Italy). My father, Enrico, was an officer in the Italian Navy, assigned to the Port Authorities. Every two years, with my family, I moved from one port city to another. And from here my propensity for travel was born. My mother, Ester Amato, survived the Holocaust, the only one left of her family of Sephardic Jews originally from the island of Rhodes. Ten months in the Auschwitz concentration camp didn’t break her. Esther survived thanks to her extraordinary strength and her mantra (never give up). Values to all of us in the family; I have applied these values in my profession as a journalist.”

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: Our gallery, founded in 2013, has an international vocation and our mission is to have our artists exhibited in international contexts; When compared with different academies, the artists draw great inspiration, an important reason for the development of their professional careers.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: We follow the modern and contemporary art and therefore it is difficult to give names, having to choose: the twentieth-century spatialist concept of Lucio Fontana and the dripping of Jackson Pollock.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: To be a gallery that gives space to young artists and allows them to travel the world with their artworks.

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you? 

A: Being at Spectrum and exhibiting the artworks of our photographer artist Giuseppe Giannotti is a source of pride for us; Miami Art Week is the highlight for contemporary art, worldwide.

CHANYU KUO

Chanyu Kuo was born and raised in Asia. After studying Art in the UK for several years, he continues to create artwork and currently resides in Miami, Florida. His artistic inspiration is based on personal development, international vision, and emotions in daily life. From shallower to deeper, and from concrete to abstract, just like the Asian ink and wash skills that have been widely applied through his artworks. Characterized by bold strokes and vibrant colors, Chanyu Kuo’s paintings explore the relationship between Asian ink and wash, and abstraction to meld cross-cultural probing and stylistic innovation with a meditative figural base. As an artist, Chanyu is intrigued by the idea of encouraging audiences to respond with emotions and reflect on their own stories.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: My work philosophy is deeply rooted in the notion of connection—connecting to one’s self, to others, and to the broader strokes of our shared humanity. I believe in the power of art to bridge the gaps of language and culture, to touch upon the emotions that are universal to the human condition. This belief impacts my work by driving me to create pieces that are not just visually stimulating, but also emotionally resonant. I approach each canvas with a mindfulness that is reflective of the meditative process found in Asian ink and wash painting. There is an intention behind every color chosen, and every line drawn, and this intention is to evoke and to provoke—to stir something within the viewer that is perhaps unrecognized or unacknowledged. Furthermore, my work philosophy embraces the concept of growth, both personal and artistic. It’s about constantly challenging myself to push the boundaries of traditional art forms, to explore and integrate new techniques, and to remain receptive to the evolving narratives of our time. This quest for growth ensures that my work is never static but is instead a living, breathing entity that reflects my journey as an artist and as a global citizen. In practical terms, this philosophy results in artwork that carries with it the layers of my personal development and my international vision. It imbues my work with a sense of exploration and introspection, inviting viewers to engage not just with the piece, but with the ideas and emotions it represents. Ultimately, it impacts my work by ensuring that each creation is a meaningful encounter, an opportunity for reflection, and a call for a deeper understanding of the self and the other.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: The two artists that most influenced me at the beginning of my art journey were Walt Disney and Mrs. Wang. Walt Disney’s ability to create engaging stories that captivated audiences worldwide greatly impacted me growing up. His works showed me the power of storytelling and how it can be used to spread love and positivity throughout the world. My early mentor Mrs. Wang has been an incredible source of guidance throughout my artistic journey. She truly opened my eyes to the limitless possibilities of art and encouraged me to explore new techniques and styles. Some other great artists in history that have had the most significant influence on my work are Joan Miro, Salvador Dali, and Clifford Still. These artists have a unique style and creative vision that I find inspiring. From Joan Miro’s expressive use of shapes and colors to Salvador Dali’s surreal dreamscapes and Clifford Still’s abstract expressionism, each artist has given me something new to explore in my work. Ultimately, their art has helped me push the boundaries of what art can be and opened up new paths for me to explore. They have all contributed to my journey of self-discovery and inspired me to create artwork reflecting my experiences and identity. I am forever grateful for their influence! Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: The best advice I’ve ever received is embodied in the metaphor, “Be like water.” This phrase encapsulates the art of resilience and adaptability—encouraging me to embrace experiences as they come, to flow around obstacles, and to adapt to various circumstances while remaining true to my essence. Water is yielding yet persistent, capable of carving canyons through stone not through force, but through patience and persistence. Similarly, this advice has taught me to approach my life and art with a sense of flexibility, to absorb experiences, whether they are tumultuous or tranquil, and to allow them to shape my journey without altering my core self. In my practice, this means that I am open to new ideas, techniques, and perspectives, much like water takes the shape of the vessel that contains it. Yet, just as water maintains its inherent properties regardless of the shape it assumes, I too strive to maintain the authenticity of my voice and vision, no matter how diverse the influences or how varied the paths I explore.

This wisdom, “be like water,” serves as a reminder that the true strength lies in adaptability—a capacity to endure, to change form, to ebb and flow with the circumstances of life and art, but ultimately, to remain unaltered in one’s true nature. It’s about the delicate balance of fitting in with the environment while not losing the unique properties that define who I am as a person and as an artist.

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you? 

A: Exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 is a milestone in my artistic journey—a journey that spans over two decades of dedication, exploration, and self-expression through art. Having woven my narrative thread through the years, this prestigious event represents a new dawn, the beginning of a wider recognition that every artist aspires to. To me, Spectrum Miami is not just an art show; it’s a vibrant confluence of culture, creativity, and communication. It is a platform that transcends geographical boundaries and cultural barriers, allowing me to present my life’s work to a global audience. It signifies an opportunity to share my ideas, my vision, and my voice with people from all walks of life, from every corner of the world. This exhibit marks a moment of celebration, a point in time where I can stand back and witness the ripples of my efforts as they touch different shores. It means engaging with art lovers, collectors, and fellow artists in a dialogue that is fostered by the universal language of visual art. It’s about the joy of sharing the stories that have been etched into my canvases, inviting viewers to partake in the experiences and emotions that have shaped my work.

The post Spectrum Miami Artists to Watch, Part 2 appeared first on Art Business News.

ALEX FUNES LOVIS

In the fascinating world of digital art and photography, emerges the remarkable work of Alex Funes Lovis, originally from Mexico born on November 8, 1966, a passionate Plastic Artist whose creativity transcends conventional limits. Through his lens, he captures the very essence of iconic places around the world, transforming images and textures into authentic masterpieces that resonate with the depth of lived experience.

The work of Alex Funes Lovis is characterized by his ability to fuse the rich visual heritage of the places he has visited with sacred geometric elements, vibrant colors and the mystique of numerology. Each creation is a journey in itself, a bridge between the viewer and the destinations they have explored, a connection that goes beyond the physical and penetrates the emotional and spiritual realms.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: My philosophy as a visual artist, photographer and creator of digital art focuses on the deep search for internal knowledge through sacred geometry. I believe that art has the power to transcend mere intellectual appreciation and can touch people’s hearts and souls in a deep and meaningful way.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: Leonardo da Vinci, Sandro Botticelli, Gustav Klimt, Remedios Varo, Leonora Carrington, Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, William-Adolphe Bouguereau, Antoni Guadi. 

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: In short, living from moment to moment is the most powerful advice I have ever been given in my life.

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you?

A: Exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 is, without a doubt, an opportunity to promote my work and make my artistic talent known on an international stage. It is an invaluable opportunity to present my creativity and personal expression to a diverse audience, connect with other artists and lovers. of art, and take my artistic career to the next level. This experience represents the recognition of my talent and dedication, as well as the opportunity to share my artistic vision with the world.

ALISSA VAN ATTA

Alissa Van Atta is currently based just outside Asheville, NC and is a mixed media painter and ceramist.  Alissa is inspired by texture, nature and unique surface treatments in her abstract artworks. In 2022, sparked by the overturning of Roe v. Wade, figures emerged in her paintings.  Feminist themes are subtly explored with a neo-pop art style inspired from vintage advertising, pin-up girls and commercial art from the 1950s – 1970s.

Alissa has participated in exhibitions and art fairs in the past few years to further expand her exposure across multiple markets. “The most rewarding part is meeting people that are attracted to my work and I get to connect to people over my pieces and the stories behind them.”

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: You may have an idea of what the work may turn into, but allow the art to lead you forward.  The end result may be very different from the initial idea, but letting the art take you on the journey is what I love the most about being an artist.  The impact on my work can be unexpected, but it allows me to grow authentically. 

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: Jean-Michel Basquiat, Eva Hesse, Joan Mitchell, Wilhem de Kooning are just just a few of many.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: Do what you love.  Allow yourself to be vulnerable.

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you?

A: Miami Art Week is such a flurry of art and people that love art.  I’m excited to be a part of it and excited to show my art in front of such a large crowd.

ANASTASIIA KOZLOVA

From childhood, Anastasiia has been drawn to math, geometry, and unseen concepts. Later in her older years searching for life answers esoterics came to her life and she developed a sense of living life through the aesthetics of every day. And in one of the dark moments of her life, she found a glimpse of light in connection with all things through art and expression of beauty, geometry, mystery, and interconnection of all things. That was a touch of higher guidance sending a message to her that we are not alone and always have been guided and protected. And this guidance started to be expressed through sacred geometry.

Her enigmatic artistic journey began as a kaleidoscope of curiosity and exploration. From the very first brushstroke, she fell in love with the beauty and intricacies of sacred geometry. Like a blossoming flower, their artistic path unfolded, guided by patterns, symmetry, and a profound reverence for the hidden mysteries of the universe. She immersed herself in the study of ancient cultures, seeking wisdom from past civilizations that honored and revered the power of sacred geometry. Over time, her artist work transformed into a mesmerizing tapestry of vibrant colors and meticulously crafted shapes.

A: The philosophy behind sacred geometry is all about finding beauty and meaning in the geometric patterns that exist in nature and the universe. It believes that these patterns are not random but hold a sacred, underlying order.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: Nature’s Magic: Taking a close look at the mesmerizing patterns found in flowers, seashells, and even the structure of the universe itself. The Fibonacci sequence and the golden ratio are all around us, just waiting to be transformed into sacred geometry art. 

Ancient Wisdom: Diving into the vast knowledge of ancient cultures, like the Egyptians, Mayans, or Greeks, who incorporated sacred geometry into their art, architecture, and religious beliefs.

Meditation and Reflection: Finding stillness within myself and letting my mind wander. Sacred geometry can be a portal to inner peace and spirituality. Exploring the depths of my thoughts and emotions, and translating them into symbolic shapes and patterns.

Music and Sound: Letting the rhythm and melodies guide my creative process. Turning on some inspiring tunes or exploring the harmonious vibrations of specific frequencies. Allow the music to flow through me and influence my artwork. 

Personal Meaning: What aspects of sacred geometry resonate with me on a deeper level? Is it the balance, unity, or complexity? Connecting with the meaning and symbolism that speaks to my soul, and infusing it into my art. The greatest inspiration lies within myself. Trusting my intuition, play with shapes and colors, and let my imagination run wild.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: Probably the best advice I’ve received was to learn to trust yourself and your intuition. Not to be afraid of the unknown. Just calm your mind, come back to yourself and you will find all the answers within. 

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you?

A: The exhibition of my sacred geometry art is a truly special milestone for me! It’s a chance for me to share my unique perspective and expression of sacred geometry with others. I think of it as a magical moment where my art takes on a life of its own, spreading joy, curiosity, and appreciation to those who have the privilege of experiencing it. So, I’m embracing this opportunity with excitement and confidence, knowing that my art has the power to inspire and captivate others. And feel so grateful for this amazing opportunity.

ANDREA BERTHEL

“Within the Square of my canvas, I show the world in a fish can. My artwork is message-oriented. Vibrant colors, humor, and the joy of telling stories lure the observer into a world of its own. My koi express their feelings and state of mind but still keep their fishy appearance.

My artwork draws you in and challenges you to think about society, politics, and culture, about our values and how we implement them. I do not want to scare observers off by negativity, but attract their interest with humor and vibrant colors and let them discover what I am trying to express.

The initial idea runs like an undercurrent through my subconscious until it has matured and can be put down in a rough sketch to determine formal design, light, and shadow. I start to fill in the details, elaborating fish portrayals, often including some funny eye-catchers. The process is fluid and new ideas are included. I paint in oils and cover the canvas with one first layer, deciding upon color and illumination. Then the long process of putting on more thin layers of paint, thus intensifying color and volume, begins.

My work is a constant search to express my ideas about the world I live in, the statement oscillating in the polarity between joy, laughter, anger, and sadness.”

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: I am concerned about the world I live in and my themes are political, philosophical, social, cultural, etc. The ideas of how to express those themes pop into my mind at 4 or 5 a.m. For example in the “American Dream, “ the koi close to their leader are white, the ones in the less advantaged places, squeezed under the lid are darker, red, and black and not well equipped (rifles). It shows white supremacy and racism. The pledge to defend democracy is counter-phrased by the halo of automatic rifles and guns around the president’s head. With the koi in cans, I can criticize with humor and irony, with vibrant colors and high technical quality.

“If my art has nothing to do with people’s pain and sorrow, what is art for?”

“I think art is a very important weapon to achieve human freedom.”

Those quotes from Ai Weiwei say what my motivation for painting is.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: Artists like Caravaggio, Tiepolo, Veronese, Velasquez, and Goya inspired me. I love to study their multi-layered meaningful compositions, the way they handle light and shadow, and how they achieve depth and volume. I admire the sense of Humor Banksy and the stark impact of Ai Weiwei’s concert hall pillars in Berlin wrapped in swim vests.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: “You don’t have to please anybody, but yourself!” (my husband). So I paint what I have to „say“, not looking on easy sales or  mainstream art.”

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you?

A: The Art Scene in America is very lively and diverse. It was such a pleasure to attend finally (waiting 3 years) the ArtExpo New York earlier. The positive and encouraging feedback was great. On top of that PopArt belongs to the cultural self-image of Americans. I feel at home in your country and to show my art at Spectrum Miami is a great honor to me.

ANTOINE ART

Antoine de Villiers (South African, 1977) is one of life’s travelers and blessed with an artist’s soul. Antoine works in many mediums, yet, there is always something quintessential of her throughout the core of her work, like a wick in a candle drawing her creations out. During a difficult childhood as a daughter of parents struggling with mental illness, Antoine was in a devastating motorcycle accident that claimed the life of her friend/driver. Days later, the diary she kept meticulously for years was stolen and she lost her medium of expression. It is then that Antoine found her artistic voice and art became a means of survival.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: I want my work to be visceral, honest, and vulnerable. Early in my career, I was drawn to the human figure as my world came crashing down amid my struggle with severe depression. I found exploring the complexities of human emotion freeing and using the subject of the figure as a means of expression. While I felt emotionally and physically out of control, my work became autobiographical and gave me much-needed relief. Philosopher Alain de Botton said that art can ‘help us to be less lonely’ and that is exactly the role it played in my life. My figures are nude, as that is the most honest and vulnerable we can be. They are usually anonymous to help empathize with the emotion captured rather than the identity of the subject. But ultimately, as William Kentridge aptly noted, no matter what subject you choose, it will always be a self-portrait.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

I love art and can never get enough of it. From old masters like da Vinci and Turner. Modernists like O’Keeffe and Hepworth, but most of all, contemporary artists like Jenny Saville, Harry Paul Ally and Yulia Bas.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: “Turn your pain into purpose”

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you?

A: I had the privilege to exhibit at Spectrum Miami in 2021. It marked the ‘relaunch’ of my career -not long after my return to the US after living in India for 5 years and teaching art to children living in slums and brothels. This year I’m grateful to be able to return to Miami once again and I’m very excited. I believe my work has grown and I can’t wait to show 20 new pieces never exhibited before.

BRINTON FARRAND

Brinton Farrand is from Indianapolis, Indiana. He received a teaching degree from Purdue University and a Master’s in Art Education from DePauw University. He taught High School Art and Photography for over 30 years, and while teaching he was the recipient of a Lilly Endowment Grant. He studied classical realism at Studio Escalier in France for three months with Timothy Stotz and Michelle Tully. After retiring, he studied painting at Herron Art School in Indianapolis with Professor Marc Jacobson and independently with artist David Slonim. He continually expands his skills through classes and experimenting in his studio and enjoys presenting in multiple shows and venues where he can talk to the public about his work.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: As a young man, I competed in High School and College Wrestling. To succeed and be the best, I drilled, practiced, and trained relentlessly.  I took that work ethic into my teaching and coaching career.  When I retired from teaching, I might say I ‘refired’ myself into a successful artist. I explore myself and the world around me, using new tools and techniques. My goal is to continuously learn from the past artists as well as the new artists of the 21^st century.  I enjoy storytelling and searching for creativity; that is what I enjoy most in my life.  After all, those who are creative and can improvise, adapt, and overcome will succeed in this new age.

My work philosophy is to paint or draw every day. I love drawing with pen and ink. The power of a single line can tell so much of the story of a painting.  Color and contrasting through colors is my favorite aspect to work on.  Color and line work continue to be central themes.  A few years ago I saw an artist using dribbled layers of color and decided to experiment with it.  Each color has a different characteristic of dribble. The line can be fat or thin and the paint may drip fast or slow.  Dribbling has taught me to make mistakes and be freer with my painting.  It has evolved into something unique.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: Camille Pissarro – He painted every day and was not afraid to explore new styles as they came along.

Van Gogh – A painter who was strongly influenced by color.

Edgar Degas – An artist trying to capture motion with his dancers.

Salvador Dali – He is my favorite because of his technical skill and he was not afraid to explore art in any direction.

Johannes Vermeer – I like how easily he portrayed the effect of light on a subject.

Eduardo Kobra – He is my newest inspiration, a Brazilian street artist known for his use of vibrant colors.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

• Find the best, copy what the best are doing, and then “plus” it.
• Do not wait for inspiration. Amateurs wait for inspiration, the rest of us get up and get to work. 
• Do not think when you paint.

When I am not painting you can find me walking outside in nature each morning. I enjoy sitting and listening to music as I observe the seasons changing.  The absolute best thing is to sit in a bar and watch people, yet even then my sketchbook is out to catch the moment.

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you?

A: To be involved in Art Basel/Miami Week – the biggest art festival in the world – is truly exciting.  Even before participating, we came to Miami to see the art and be inspired.  My favorite venue was Spectrum because the artists seemed to be the friendliest of all the venues, very eager to explain their work and share their thoughts.  To be surrounded by so many talented artists and friends is truly inspiring and a great learning experience.

CHRISTINE LAUBACH

Christine is a passionate painter from the US, Eastern Shore of Maryland. Born in Washington DC she has always had a deep connection with art. As the youngest of 7 she was influenced by the Artists and Scientists in her family. She fell in love with ice skating and spent countless hours creating magical patterns on the ice. Now as a visual artist she paints intricate patterns reconnecting with that sense of magic and wonder. Driven by compassion, she pursued a career as a Trauma Operating Room Nurse, plastics, reconstructive and craniofacial specialist, where she witnessed the resilience of human spirit firsthand. Painting became a bridge that allowed her to express her creativity and bring healing to those who have experienced trauma including herself.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: My “Why” is clear. I want to share the meditative and transformative powers of art universally. My art is a vessel for healing, a source of inspiration, and a reminder that beauty can emerge from even the most challenging circumstances. I create, explore, and touch lives through my art. With every brushstroke, I invite others to embark on their own transformative journey, reminding them that art has the power to heal, transform, and ignite the spark of hope within their souls. My paintings are a reflection of my journey- the resilience and perseverance to stand in the face of adversity, abstracting the beauty I discover in unexpected places, and the depth of my emotions. These paintings tell the story of love, loss, and the indomitable spirit that resides in all of us. Each piece is a testament to the power of following one’s passion, even when life takes unexpected turns. But the journey doesn’t stop there. I realize my art has the potential to touch lives and make a difference. With a compassionate heart, I use my skills to help others to heal and transform. I offer breast cancer survivors and people living with all types of scars a unique form of support. I create intricate camouflage and 3-D tattoos specifically designed to help reclaim their bodies and embrace their scars as symbols of strength and resilience. Through my art these individuals are empowered to embrace new beginnings in their journey of healing.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: Rembrandt, Rubens, Johnathan Lasker, Joan Mitchell, Gerhard Richter, Chagall, Kandinsky, Pollock, Susan Caporael, and more.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: “Imagination is more important than knowledge. Imagination is the language of the soul. Pay attention to your imagination and you will discover all you need to be fulfilled.” -Albert Einstein

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2023 mean to you?

A: I’m looking forward to this opportunity to share my work on a large scale in one of the most exciting shows of the year! This means connecting with people who are seeking to collect original art where the experience, the story, and vision inspire them. Meeting buyers, collectors, other artists, and aspiring artists will give rise to future collaborations.

The post Spectrum Miami Artists to Watch, Part 1 appeared first on Art Business News.

Q: Who are you and what do you do?

A: My name is Hande Uğur a.k.a. Handy Queen and I am an interdisciplinary artist born in Istanbul, if I have to say boldly, I declared myself a visual philosopher.

Q: What is your background?

A: For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved painting and making various types of art. I graduated from Hacettepe University, Department of Sociology. Meanwhile, I attended drawing classes at the same university. After graduation, I first worked as a jewelry designer, but later on I realized what I really wanted to do was to just tell a story to an audience through art.

Q: How do you work?

A: I use a variety of media to describe the current events of our time.

I consider myself as a storyteller. I usually like to tell about current issues in my works and connect them to an old story known to everyone. My favorite topics are dependence on technology and social networks, pollution and climate change, female identities, and celebrities in popular culture. I try to make the audience feel the exact emotion I want to convey through different media, such as acrylic paint, collage, and lenticular print, which I love very much. My works are humorous but serious at the same time. And that is the strength of my style.

Q: What art and artist do you most identify with? How have they influenced you?

A: I have been influenced by many artists. I’m usually attracted to their provocative and playful styles. Hieronymus Bosch, Rene Magritte, Nancy Fouts, Barbara Kruger, Todd Schorr, Paco Comet, Ye Hangxing and Mario Soria are some of my favorites. The way they compel me to think also inspires me.

Q: What has been your favorite experience so far as an artist?

A:  I have participated in many international fairs and exhibitions. But my favorite experience is to see people welcome my artwork into their homes and in their lives.

Q: What is the best advice you have received?

A: I think Andy Warhol gave the best advice given to any artist. “Don’t think about making art, just get it done. Let everyone else decide if it’s good or bad, whether they love it or hate it. While they are deciding, make even more art.” I’m solemnly trying to follow his advice.

Q: When you are not working, where can we find you?

A: I always say “I am a painter. My goal is to create unique and high-quality art that can light a spark in the hearts of the audience. My studio is the place that makes me feel free and connected.” Even though my studio has become my home due to long working hours, if I am not working, I like to visit new exhibitions in town, try to go to see a new play, spend time with my family and friends.

Q: How has your career as an artist shifted during the past two years? And did the pandemic have an influence on your art?

A: The pandemic has affected me like everyone else. It made me stop and understand what was important to the world, to my family, to myself. Curfews caused everyone to fall behind from their jobs and get bored, but on the contrary, it made me work harder. The past two years have been very fast and improving for me, I participated in many exhibitions, connected with many artists, and found opportunities to collaborate with various brands. We lost our loved ones, and I am very sorry for that. In the end, I want to believe that art will heal us.

For more information, please, visit my personal website www.handeugur.art  or on social media @handy.queen

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A: My name is Scott Jeffries. I am a painter and sculptor based in Lake Worth Florida. My work is vibrant and joyful filled with color and energy. My work is an irreverent expression of my subconscious, an invitation to my brain. My vivid imagination was manifested through doodles as a child to the works I am presently doing today. My work is a mirror of the person standing before it and provides a reflection of the present mood.

Q: What is your background?

A: I was born in New York City in 1967. Raised outside of Philadelphia, I was an elite athlete, a swimmer, who competed at a national level as was a Division 1 All-American in college. After college, I went to law school and became a litigation attorney. My life changed in 2006 when I became clean and sober from an insane crack and heroin addiction. Through all of this, I was always doodling and painting. Inspiration came from my grandmother who was a painter. I continue her legacy the best that I can

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: My philosophy is that it’s ok to paint outside the lines. I think a lot of artists are hampered by perfectionism. This is not my problem. After I got sober, I embraced an attitude of gratitude because the reality is that I should be dead. I don’t spend time worrying if something in my art may not appear “perfect” to someone else. My art is the embodiment of freedom. Freedom from worry and Judgment. I know that not every single person will love my work, and that is just fine with me.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: I am really attracted to the COBRA art movement artists like Karl Appel. The primitive nature of those artists inspires me as someone who is self-taught. I didn’t go to art school so I don’t follow specific rules or conventions when I paint. I just paint. I also love Jean Dubuffet, the collages of Romare Bearden, and Purvis Young, and the social commentary provided by the artist Titus Kaphar. I love that African American Artists are part of the art landscape that people are talking about.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: Be yourself. Have Fun. Stop Complaining. Work Hard. Be on Time. Floss.

Q: When you are not working, where can we find you?

A: I’m heavily involved in the recovery community. I teach meditation and art to people in rehab that are dealing with mental health and addiction issues. I exercise on a regular basis. I have a studio where other artists can hang out and paint which is a gift. I love to cook and eat with friends and family. It’s a full life.

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2022 mean to you?

A: First, I’m honored. I had a few paintings at Spectrum 2017 with Irreversible Projects which was amazing. To have a SOLO Booth is almost mind-boggling along with verification and motivation that the momentum that has been building for the past few years is real. I am beyond excited to meet new people, connect with other artists specifically, and just have a good time. The Artist’s life is not always easy but it’s certainly worth it.

The post Meet the Artist: Spectrum Miami Spotlight Artist Scott Jeffries appeared first on Art Business News.

A: Hi! My name is Briana Fitzpatrick. I am a multidisciplinary artist who loves to dance, flip, contort, and paint all at the same time. I know it sounds wild and my paint-splattered floors and walls would agree. However even when I’m painting while hanging upside down and spinning from the ceiling, it’s in creative outbursts like those when I feel most alive and present at the moment. I have a deep desire to capture the dynamic beauty of energy and movement to bring people art that is created in ways to inspire them to express who they are and encourage them to pursue their dreams. Because when we do and express what we love most, we not only shine brighter but so does our world.

Q: What is your background?

A: I grew up training in dance, gymnastics, archery, martial arts, and aerial arts. However, dance was (and still is) one of my greatest passions. I was 17yrs old when I pursued my professional dance career until the lockdown happened. During that time I was hungry to find another creative outlet and in 2021 I decided to take a leap of faith and dive wholeheartedly into becoming a full-time artist.

I commonly get asked, “when and why did you start painting upside down in a headstand or handstand with your feet?”  And actually, that idea sparked in me within the first month I began painting. I was watching an online tutorial and the instructor recommended that if you ever struggle with painting proportions accurately, then flip your painting upside down with my gymnastics background I thought to myself “hmmm, why don’t I just flip myself upside down instead?” So I grabbed my canvas, set it on the ground leaning up against a wall, put paint on my feet, flipped into an elbowstand, and began painting!  It was so much fun for me to be using my other backgrounds of training to create my work and that’s when I knew I couldn’t just paint standing up anymore.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: My work philosophy consists of two main points:

-Use creativity and art to bring more light, love, and liveliness into this world while inspiring others to live their life wholeheartedly with passion and joy.

-Always be a student, meaning to continually take enthusiastic interest in learning, experimenting, growing and developing my skills not only in my art, but in all areas of my life.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: This is a great question and can be tricky to answer since there are so many artists that inspire me in multiple ways, but I will say my top 5.

Mikael Brandrup – practically love all of his work, from his use of colors to geometry to the freeness and boldness he expresses, and how diligent of a worker he is in pursuing his dreams and goals is all very inspiring to me.

L 7 Matrix – his work is amazing! His level of skill with spray paints and use of large scale in his art is remarkable.

Nick Bultman – his abstracts blow me away each time he creates one. I love the movement and use of creating glowing light effects he captures through his work.

Eric Robitaille – his work is simply beautiful to me. I really like how he puts a variety of textures in his work and how he captures the peaceful yet strong expressions on animals’ faces.

Jodie King – her vibrant, enthusiastic energy is always inspiring to me.  She doesn’t like to let anything hold her back. 

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: Another great question, I believe one of the best pieces of advice I received although these aren’t the exact words, but more of the message behind it is “You need to love and care for yourself first like you are caring for someone in your life that you love.  So that way you can not only flourish and pour more of your love wholeheartedly into all that you do but into those whom you love as well.”

Q: When you are not working, where can we find you?

A: You can probably find me in the dance studio, gym, or outside on a walk, run, or playing with my puppy.

Q: What does exhibiting at Spectrum Miami 2022 mean to you?

A: Ever since I first heard about it back in October of 2021, I knew I wanted to show in it and made it my goal.  So I continued to develop my work, and submitted my application in the early summer, and in about a week after submitting I received a phone call saying I have been accepted to show my art at Spectrum!  I was super excited (and actually still am) I still vividly remember the day I got the phone call, I was sitting on my family’s big tractor, getting to mow the fields when my phone rang. I’m beyond grateful for this opportunity and look forward to meeting many people, artists, art lovers, the Miami community, and experiencing all of the inspiration Miami has to offer.

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