Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriel Portillo.
Gabriel, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I was born in Alpine, Texas. I took art lessons as a young kid with local artist Charlie Bell. My love for art and creating began at an early age. I then moved to Round Rock for a year then to Midland, Texas where I spent 13-14 years. I took art lessons throughout high school and made it state my senior year with the help of my teacher Jane Becker. After graduating from Midland Lee I attended college for a bit. I now live in Austin, Texas and have been here since August of 2016.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
My art changes from time to time. I tend to ride a wave I feel good on. Then jump off and ride a totally different wave. Later re-visiting old styles. It really just depends on how I’m feeling. When I’m not doing commissions for people, I tend to lean towards abstract or pop art. I consider my work contemporary art. I usually use acrylic or spray paint. Although, I like experimenting with everything and learning new ways to create. I love pencil, pen, and markers as well. A lot of line work has been showing up on my work lately thanks to a Keith Haring video I saw a couple months back. I create art because it allows me to express myself visually in many different forms. I create because I absolutely love the entire process. Plus it’s a really solid feeling when other people dig your work. Family, friends, music, nature, and everyday life is an inspiration to me. Living in Austin; there is no shortage of inspiration. Especially, with all the heavy hitters in this city. Some big-name artists that inspire me arts Basquiat, Chuck Close, Keith Haring, Madsteez, and many many more. When someone looks at my work, o just hope they can feel the energy that was put into it. I want them to feel how I was feeling when I was creating it. One thing you should know about my work is. Not all of it is planned. Most of it just happens as it goes.
Do you think conditions are generally improving for artists? What more can cities and communities do to improve conditions for artists?
I think the biggest challenge is being able to stay true to yourself and your craft. Not changing yourself for the sake of others. Gotta keep it real.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
On my Instagram @_.paste._
Or at Cherry Cola Dog every other weekend. If you want to support my work by purchasing a print or painting or getting a commission you can DM me on IG or email me.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1302 Parker Lane Apt 107
- Phone: 432-934-5140
- Email: pastecreations@gmail.com
- Instagram: _.paste._
- Facebook: Gabriel Portillo
Image Credit:
Me
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