About Ricardo Barrientos Art

Ricardo Barrientos is a Toronto-based mixed-media visual artist whose vibrant abstract work is a captivating fusion of his Salvadoran heritage, his Canadian experience, and the expansive inspiration drawn from a recent transformative sailing voyage.

Born and raised in El Salvador, Ricardo was immersed in creativity from a young age, inspired by local pop culture, his father's abstract paintings and architectural designs, and his mother's passion for crafts. His artistic journey paused briefly when he transitioned to Canada at the turn of the new millennium, but new surroundings soon reignited his creative spark. He began to paint again, experimenting with watercolours, oils, acrylics, mixed media, and graffiti, quickly establishing a presence in the Toronto art community through live art demonstrations and collaborations.

In 2021, a new chapter unfolded as Ricardo joined the sailing crew of the vessel STARDATE. This immersive journey wasn't just about navigating the seas; it became a profound artistic expedition. At every port, Ricardo actively engaged with local artists and communities, coordinating and organizing collaborative workshops, live painting performances, and exhibitions. Utilizing his Spanish/English translation skills, he fostered cross-cultural connections and enriched his artistic expression through diverse collaborations. This period honed his problem-solving skills, navigating not just adverse weather but also the complexities of international clearances, all while deeply immersing himself in the vibrant cultural tapestries of each new environment.

Ricardo's abstract images burst with bold colours, soft flowing lines, and rich textures, each piece fueled by his passion, imagination, and a constantly evolving wellspring of global inspiration. He believes: "I love colour and feel that it has great meaning in our world and the way we see and perceive all the beautiful things in it. I am always looking to incorporate new skills, knowledge, and ideas to my work. My inspiration comes from everything around me, anything that catches my attention including the thoughts and actions of our daily lives. Life itself is a work of art, what better place to start!"

-Ricardo Barrientos

A breathtaking experience!

Alex

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