Parker Gallery presents “Perpetual Motion” – a Journey through Rick Garcia’s masterful creativity, Nov. 8 through Dec. 8, with an opening reception Thursday, Nov. 7 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Garcia has created works of art for some of today’s most highly visible organizations, events, and causes. His accomplishments span across mediums and themes, from rock & roll to endangered species; encompassing photography, surrealist renderings on canvas and guitars and even an 1800 sq. foot fiberglass octopus sculpture.
While happiest in his studio and creating new works, the spotlight always seems to find its way to Garcia. His vivid and dynamic creations have earned him recognition from many esteemed organizations. He has been selected as the official artist for the GRAMMY awards three times and commissioned to create portraits of stars such as Rolling Stones, Coldplay, Santana, Black Eyed Peas, Alicia Keyes and Kanye West. In 1986, Absolut Vodka launched their highly successful Absolute Vodka campaign with Andy Warhol. Garcia soon joined the distinguished list of Absolut artists which includes Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Annie Leibovitz and Anish Kapoor. With two successful campaigns, Garcia was named “Absolut Artist of the 90’s” and his worldwide recognition grew.
While enjoying these high profile exposures, he continued his commitment to causes he felt passionate about and where his visibility could make a difference. The United Nations commissioned him to design postal stamps to bring awareness to the dangers facing the rainforest and its inhabitants, and shortly thereafter, for the 50th Anniversary of the World Health Organization, bringing awareness to the vanishing supply of freshwater.
His association with Gibson guitars spawned a collection of highly collectable one-of- a-kind painted instruments. His most recent commission was painting a 1954 Gibson Les Paul reissue for The Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame and a 50th Anniversary issue of the Gibson SG for CANCER RESEARCH U.K.
Parker Gallery welcomes the artist for his first solo show in almost a decade. Garcia will present acrylic paintings on canvas, 3D lenticular prints, screen prints, and painted guitars. He will also share one of his most recent body of works, “RAG13.” These works reflect his highly symbolic exploration of how society is being affected by diminished privacy, increased data mining and surveillance recognition. Thought provoking, reflective and yet playful.
A sneak preview of his works can be seen on Nov. 3 as St. Jude’s team dons his running jerseys to raise funds for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital and in the winter issue of Venu Magazine when it is distributed in time for Art Basel Miami.
Parker Gallery is located at 409 Greenwich. For more information, contact 203-661-0205 or visit cparkergallery.com
