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Ralfka Gonzalez
Ralfka V. Gonzalez (born 1958) is a self-taught Chicano artist known for his vibrant folk art that explores themes of death, love, social justice, and surrealism. Born in San Antonio, Texas, Gonzalez now resides and works in San Francisco, California. His work reflects a unique blend of mystical primitivism and creative science, inspired by his experiences growing up near the San Antonio River and his life as a gay Mexican man.
Early Life and Background
Gonzalez was born and raised near the San Antonio River in 1958, in an area where “El Rancho Grande meets the blues.” Influenced by the borderland culture, neither fully here nor there, he was inspired by a vision to pursue painting. His mother’s words, “every generation says it is the end of the time, it is the end of the world,” resonate in his work, which often reflects a deep connection to cultural myths and a healing process through folk art.
Career and Artistic Style
Gonzalez’s art is a celebration of color and imagination, often featuring bees, cactus flowers, virgin saints, dreaming butterflies, and deeper shadows. He believes in the power of art to be both shocking and purposefully spontaneous, discovering new universes through his work. His paintings are imbued with surrealist elements and a strong narrative quality, aiming to make viewers smile while addressing profound themes.
Gonzalez has lived and worked in various cities, including Philadelphia, Chicago, Oaxaca (Mexico), Mazatlán (Mexico), and San Francisco. He spent significant periods in Philadelphia during the 1980s and 1990s, where he became well known for his contributions to the local art scene.
Publications and Collaborations
In addition to his painting, Gonzalez has been involved in numerous projects. He co-wrote and illustrated the award-winning children’s book, My First Book of Proverbs / Mi Primer Libro de Dichos, published by Children’s Book Press/Lee and Low Books. His artwork is featured in Rick Bayless’s Chicago restaurants, Frontera Grill and Topolobambo, and he has created interiors for various restaurants in San Francisco. His cover art for Sandra Cisneros’ book Loose Woman (Random House, 1994) is another notable contribution.
Exhibitions and Critical Work
Gonzalez’s work has been featured in several critical works and exhibitions, including:
• Art and Homosexuality (Oxford University Press)
• La Luz de Jesus 25 (catalog book)
• In and Out of the Cold (Yerba Buena Museum, San Francisco)
• Mission Grafica: Reflecting Community in Print (Mission Cultural Center, San Francisco)
Influences and Techniques
Gonzalez’s influences include artists such as Martín Ramirez, Francisco Toledo, Dr. Atl (Gerardo Murillo Coronado), David Hockney, Jean Dubuffet, Judy Chicago, Robert Mapplethorpe, Marcel Duchamp, and Man Ray. His favorite materials are acrylic paint, wood, tin, and canvas. He has been represented by Galería La Mano Mágica in Oaxaca, Mexico.
Personal Philosophy
Gonzalez’s art is deeply personal and healing, rooted in his identity and experiences. He aims to create art that is both accessible and profound, capturing the mystical and surreal aspects of life. His work serves as a testament to the power of creativity and the ongoing quest to explore new realms through art.
I am creating this article on behalf of Ralfka Gonzalez, with whom I have a professional relationship. AnzoriKutateladze (talk) 18:48, 10 July 2024 (UTC)Anzori Kutateladze