Romero Britto returns to Houston for a special exhibition that he’s hosting at Off The Wall Gallery from January 20-22. The Brazil-born artist will share his latest painting with art aficionados who enjoy his use of colors and unique themes. Britto’s work has been featured in exhibitions and galleries in over 100 countries, with Houston as the next stop.

Recently, Britto and I discussed his exhibition, his love of art and what makes his Houston exhibit different from the others.
 
What inspired you to become an artist?
My art growing up always gave me this good, happy feeling. I was able to see something happen right in front of me. Growing up in the situation where I grew up in Brazil, it was difficult to imagine what was going to happen each day. But to be able to see something happen in front of you like a piece of art, and being able to start and finish it was a great feeling of accomplishment for me. I did not know at the time what that meant. But as I grew older, I realized that when you’re a young person and you’re trying to do something with your life, you see things as “huge” in front of you. From buildings to someone’s career, to people’s lives, it’s about feeling accomplished and worthy. All of this goes on in the mind of young people around the world.

You’ve done so many exhibits all over the world. What makes your exhibit at Off The Wall Gallery different from the others?
Well basically it’s going to be different because I’m going to a state that I haven’t been to for several years. The painting is very special that I’m bringing to Houston. It’s a special time in America. It’s just a unique opportunity to share my work.

When you’re creating an art piece, is there a certain color that you always gravitate to the most?
I love color. My work is an explosion of colors. My favorite color is yellow and my second favorite is red. But it depends on the piece. I start with a particular color, but it depends on the piece.

Has there ever been an art piece that you’ve made that you’ve loved so much, but couldn’t sell it?
Of course, but I learned really early to let it go. An art piece is like a child to me, but I know they need to start a journey. Yes, I did have a painting that I wanted to keep a long time ago. It was in the early days when I arrived to the U.S. My son was about to be born and I did a painting on my son, but I needed the money and ended up selling it. I also did a piece for the United Nations that was very special to me as well.

If you would like to see the exhibition, RSVP’s are required and you can call 713.871.0940 or email mimi@offthewallgallery.com to reserve your space today.