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Gilda Garza: Bringing Mexican Art to Global Heights
Meet Gilda Garza, a visionary artist whose vibrant creations transcend the traditional boundaries of painting, prints, and sculptures. With a unique style characterized by bold colors and an innovative interpretation of deck cards, Gilda’s work is a celebration of her Mexican heritage and personal experiences. Her art has captivated audiences worldwide, earning her a place among the most influential artists of her generation. Through collaborations with historic Murano Glass and the fashion icon Roberto Cavalli, Gilda continues to push the boundaries of contemporary art, infusing her passion and creativity into every piece. Join us as we explore the captivating world of Gilda Garza and her remarkable journey in the art world.
Can you tell us more about your signature style, which transcends painting, prints, and sculptures, and is characterized by bold colors interpreting deck cards?
1. In this exploration, I unravel the layers of this unique aesthetic that has captivated art enthusiasts around the globe. My distinctive artistic style, characterized by bold colors, can be traced to a combination of personal experiences, cultural influences, and a deliberate artistic philosophy. Growing up in Mexico, I find my roots in my hometown, Sinaloa. I was surrounded by the vibrant colors and shapes of colonial art. Whether depicting people, animals, or inanimate objects, my touch transforms them into deck cards, giving a sense of abundance and vitality. Now, collaborating with Murano Glass, I can bring my art into the most beautiful glass sculptures. I feel so honored to bring my country’s name into Italian art history.
How do diverse influences, ranging from Symbolism movement master Gustav Klimt to Cubism and modern artist master Pablo Picasso, inspire your artistic creations?
I love art, but not only to admire paintings. I like learning about the artists, where they come from, and their passions. I also like to know about their lives and study them. I really like the Renaissance painters like da Vinci and Michelangelo, and also 20th-century artists like Gustav Klimt, Pablo Picasso, Kandinsky, and Frida Kahlo. What interests me most about art nowadays are the painters leaving their mark and making history with their work.
As one of the most influential artists in Mexico, how does your primarily self-taught approach to art influence your creative process?
Artists create, we don’t copy. It’s easy for me to create. I get to my studio, and once I have the brush in my hand, all the ideas come to my mind, and I capture them on the canvas. Each work of art that I paint has a story behind it. I am very grateful to be internationally recognized for my work. I have been very fortunate to work with big names in the art world and to be able to carry the name of Mexico through my artwork with these great collaborations.
You work with oil, acrylic, and spray painting on canvas. Could you share how these mediums contribute to your artistic expression?
I have my own technique. I like to use acrylics, finishing off with oil. I have some works with feathers, sand, and rocks. My universe revolves around my art. I truly love what I do. It is my one true passion to be able to express my emotions and experiences in life on a canvas. It brings me much joy to inspire or touch people with my art.
Your collaboration with historic Murano Glass in Italy is celebrated. How does working with such a traditional medium influence your contemporary artistic vision?
Within the furnaces of the gallery, my artworks came to life, transforming into three-dimensional sculptures. The artist’s colors and strokes became transparency and light thanks to the savoir-faire of Mario Furlan, the undisputed master of Murano Sculptural Art. The history of glassmaking in Murano dates back to 1291. I feel very grateful for this collaboration with Venetian glass. We will continue to do collaborations, and we are already working on upcoming big projects.
Shifting gears, can you tell us about your experience with Roberto Cavalli and his fashion events? How has this influenced your artistic perspective?
I have always admired Roberto Cavalli’s designs, which are works of art that you can wear. It’s as sexy and elegant as my artworks. When I discovered fashion back in the day, my favorite brand was Roberto Cavalli. I remember I used to stop at his boutiques only to admire his dresses. In my first exhibition, I wore my first Roberto Cavalli. When I saw my paintings encrusted in his high couture dresses, it was a dream come true for me. I am still dreaming.
You mentioned your experience at Cavalli private events. Can you share some memorable moments or insights gained from those experiences?
I have my best memories of Roberto Cavalli’s private events. I became good friends with the Cavalli family. The last party was in Milan; the after-party for fashion week was amazing. However, one I’m never going to forget was at Courchevel 1850, where we flew in his private plane with the designers and close friends. The whole trip was full of details. Roberto Cavalli’s team knows how to throw a luxury party; everything was over the top. It was an unforgettable trip.
@gildagarza007