Today we’d like to introduce you to Gino Santa Maria.
Hi Gino, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born in Peru, South America, and I knew I wanted to be an artist from an early age. I lived there until my 6th year of engineering at a university. In 1981 I moved to the United States and started painting full-time, doing studio work exclusively. Although many things changed over the years, the most significant change occurred in 2017, when I stumbled into the practice of plein air painting. It simply means painting from nature. Painting en plein air is the hardest thing I have ever done. Initially, it challenged me beyond my abilities but with perseverance and practice; it became almost second nature. Even though learning will never stop today, plein air has changed even my studio work for the better. Painting merely a copy of what we see leads to frustration and exhaustion. So, I have learned to interpret the scenes I see, applying the principles of values, composition, and color to a painting that communicates a story. I am so grateful I get to do what I am passionate about and for the collectors and patrons that make it possible.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
The life of an artist is not without struggles, especially when you are your harshest critic. But the best part of this journey is that there is no destination because the learning always continues.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a representational oil painter passionate about exploring the transformative effects of light and color in the world around us. My work reflects the beauty found in the breathtaking views of nature and the small, mundane things. My paintings consist primarily of landscapes, still lifes, and urban depictions. I view nature as a reflection of God’s character, so I deeply connect with the great outdoors. When not working in my studio, I can paint on location en plein air, where I make small studies for larger pieces.
So, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you before we go? How can they support you?
I am always available to go out and paint. I belong to the Missouri Plein Air Painters Association (MOPAPA), so I often paint with this group on Sundays. The best way to support any artist is to follow their work and tell them what you think. My website and social media outlets are a great way of doing that. And, of course, collecting my work is an excellent way of supporting my work.
Pricing:
- From $240 to $5000, depending on the size. For more information, please visit my website or any galleries representing me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ginosantamaria.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ginosantamariaart/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Gino-Santa-Maria-Art/100027104396933/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gino-santa-maria-a218aa63/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ginosantamariaart51/featured
