CARLOS PONCE
Carlos Ponce is a Venezuelan abstract painter based in Massachusetts. He relocated to the United States in 2003 following political persecution from his country’s totalitarian regime. Following a thriving career in academia, he decided to change his hectic lifestyle and devote himself entirely to painting. Ponce has a studio by the beach in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. He often paints outdoors by the ocean incorporating natural elements into his work, such as sand, marine water, cockles, and horseshoe crab shells. The unique mineral properties of each material react differently with the paint and surface creating a plethora of textures and color combinations. Ponce expresses the infinite spaciousness of time and nature, the connection with the earth, and the cyclical fluctuations of the environment. His art is an open window into the wonders of Creation and an invitation to preserve the treasures of our natural habitats.
Ponce has a Ph.D. from Northeastern University and Master’s Degrees from Tufts University and Vermont Law School in the fields of political science, environmental policy, urban planning, and law. He held teaching and research positions at Columbia University, Northeastern University, Boston University, Framingham State University, and John Hopkins University. For many years, he worked as a consultant in human rights development, helping non-profits organizations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, where he often traveled. He also provides support to artists who live under authoritarian regimes–such as Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Russia–helping them secure exhibitions and survive.
CARLOS PONCE ON
Walk on the Wild Side, 2023
Mixed media on canvas
24” x 24”
$2200
a combination of beach sand, coral, pebbles, crushed glass, sea water for pouring, and acrylic painting on canvas
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My work is intimately tied to the sea. I paint by the ocean in Cape Cod, mostly outdoors sitting on the sand, so that I can absorb the fresh saline air and feel one with my natural surroundings. I use acrylic paint mixed with marine elements such as sand, water, coral pebbles, broken glass, and horseshoe crab shells. The various sizes and properties of the sand grains, mixed with paint and ocean water, form a myriad of unexpected shades and textures, partly reflecting changes in weather conditions and seasons. Through my work, I raise awareness on the importance of preserving natural habitats and maintaining our connection to the earth.
