Connect What is your favorite type of art to create?

Surreal art. I love to blend realism and dream states together. There is so much to explore in life. There is the world itself, your mind, your body, your work and your relationships. In my own life, I am constantly searching for truth. In my work, I convey this searching by exploring inner states to find what I’m looking for. Through this creation, I often find courage, strength, peace and acceptance. I find what I need to move forward.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration from asking questions. Questions about my own life, experiences and internal states. Born in Brazil and migrating to the United States as a child, I experienced a lot of hardships that at times felt like it held me back. I wanted to take control of my life, and not live behind my fears. Oftentimes my work features hands, symbolizing strength and taking control. It is my anchor into the physical and internal world.

What would you do with $25,000?

I would use it to help aid me in my artistic career. Art fairs are a major outlet for others to get access to my work, and with this money, I would use it to go to air fairs around the nation. Fairs like Affordable Art Fair, Art Expo, Miami art week and more are often not feasible for me as they can be quite costly. This money would help me show up on this bigger stage.