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The Happy Art Movement razilian-American Artist Romero Britto - Founder of The Happy Art Movement, whose 60,000-square-foot studio in Miami is known as “The Palace,” has arrived in New York. An exhibition of his work curated by Catherine Davis featuring 100 original paintings, limited edition works and sculptures created during the pandemic opened at Carlton Fine Arts. A portion of the proceeds of all sales will be donated to the New York Academy of Art.
Romero Britto
Comes to New York City BY W H I T N E Y LOV E L L S C H OT T
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Absolut Vodka 1989 & Formula One PARK magazine sat down with Britto in Miami during Formula One, where a life-size sculpture valued at $400,000 was on view featuring his signature bold, colorful patterns reflecting the optimistic view of the world he wants his work to represent. He told us he came to America thirty-five years ago and has worked in many roles while transitioning from a street artist to the global star he is today. He says his journey started when he was a child painting simple watercolors and a schoolteacher bought one of his paintings for $14 dollars, inspiring him to continue. “I came from a large Brazilian family. My mother worked and cared for all of us. To entertain myself, I would draw. My drawings were always colorful, happy and fun. It was my search for happiness and it made me feel good; happy and safe. I never wanted to stop!” But his road to success was a step-by-step process. “I knew I’d never make it as a waiter,” he jokes, “but I always loved cars, so I worked in a car wash, and a pizza parlor, and in stores and supermarkets, anything to help support my passion for creating art. The only thing I haven’t been is a husband…
