Short Bio
Andres Garcia is from Ocala, Florida and is Self Taught. As a kid he was always creative and has been self taught in everything art related. In 2019 Andres was working in aviation in Gainesville and traveling back to Ocala to help caring for his ill grandmother who was battling pancreatic cancer. He began painting as a hobby to pass time and It helped fight his depression. His Grandmother said “if you are happy being an Artist then why aren’t you doing it for the rest of your life?” Those words sunk in and realized he can do something with his gift of creativity. His grandmother passed away in march 2020 and His Art career began. Challenges came as the COVID pandemic started and opportunities to show his skills in person were limited. In that time he was mentored by Artist EJ Nieves and began pursing His passion. Showcasing his work at Polk state university, to NEHS galleries Grand opening, and displaying work inside Ocala City Hall he eventually became resident artist at Magnolia Art Xchange, and has 4 murals.
Statement
I am a Self Taught Artist and Muralist from Ocala, FL that enjoys painting in acrylics and mixed media. I enjoy creating art of Inspired Pop-culture Characters, Athletes , Mythological, Nature and Historical figures or events. I began painting after my grandmothers diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in late 2018. I remember sitting outside with her at her home near the garden of roses where we had so many conversations. She saw me painting more often and we had one conversation that motivated me to pursue it as a career. In March 2020 she passed away and its been a way to reconnect with Her. Art saved my life and forever made it an adventure I always look forward to no matter how hard it gets. I've traveled all around Florida and had artwork shipped all over the US and as far as Italy all because of being introduced to Social Media. Since pursuing art I am proud of my accomplishments like having displayed a painting at Ocala City Hall, becoming an Magnolia Art Xchange Resident Artist/ Alumni and current Board Member. Murals have been an amazing opportunity to have my work for all to enjoy and I have over 10 Commercial and Residencial Murals located in Lake Wales, Orlando, and in Ocala. Being self taught my mission is to mentor young artists and teach them what I have learned. In 2024 I became a Resident at 8th Ave Gallery in Ocala, FL with a Artist Studio and Gallery for all to visit.
