SANDY GARCIA

Growing up with a multicultural background, I was exposed to a variety of influences that shaped my artistic expression. Born in El Paso, Texas and raised in East Los Angeles, I was fortunate enough to experience the vibrant and diverse world of Chicano Art. This exposure sparked my interest in bright colors, which have become my signature palette.

My earliest memories of art were during my trips with my Grandmother Carmelita across the border to Juarez, Mexico. As she lit candles in churches, I sat in the back pew, captivated by the statues of saints, colorful clothing, and stained glass windows. The beauty and power of these expressions left a lasting impression on me and inspired my desire to become an artist.

As a self-taught artist, I use the paintbrush as my form of communication to express my raw, impressionable Folk Art. My works of art are spiritual, with a human connection that tells individual stories and evokes emotions. Each painted face is a unique expression that captures beauty and powerful meaning, sometimes accompanied by an occasional crow.I see myself as a storyteller, using my inside voice to convey the essence of my experiences and cultural influences. My imperfections are intentional, as they add a raw and authentic quality to my works that can be read by others. Ultimately, my goal is to create art that inspires, connects and enriches the lives of those who experience it.

My preferred medium is acrylic on canvas, which allows me to express my bold and vibrant style. However, I also enjoy experimenting with mixed media on various surfaces, which adds an element of surprise and texture to my pieces.Some of my most unique works have been exhibited on 8-foot tin roof panels, which were displayed at the prestigious Sam and Alfreda Maloof Foundation for Arts and Crafts during their “Garden Exhibit”. These pieces were a testament to my artistic versatility and ability to create impactful works of art on unconventional surfaces.