10 Questions with Gerardo Labarca

Labarca has not always focused on visual art. Before he dedicated his time to painting, he had experience in the gourmet restaurant industry. As a director and concept creator, he managed four establishments that were recognized among the best gastronomic addresses in Montreal. This culinary experience enhanced his sense of detail and nurtured his creativity. At 47, Labarca transitioned from the restaurant industry to pursue art full-time. Although he had been interested in painting since his youth, it was at this later age that he decided to focus on his talent. His works are primarily portraits, capturing the essence of his subjects through meticulous attention to detail, blending precision and lightness while conveying emotions. He draws inspiration from timeless icons and wildlife, aiming to raise public awareness about its preservation. His commitment to his passions and consistency exemplify the importance of following one's dreams, regardless of when they are discovered. Labarca has exhibited at major art fairs globally and is represented by prestigious galleries. His personality is reflected in his work, and he shares his knowledge and experience with other artists, embodying mutual support and camaraderie within the artist community.

www.gerardolabarca.com | @ge_labarca

ARTIST STATEMENT

“Self-taught painter specializing in portraits, with influences from artists such as Corno and Philippe Pasqua. My work focuses mainly on the representation of the human being and the imaginary, putting the character at the centre of my creative process. I specialize in figurative gesture painting, using dynamic movements formed by spatula strokes to visually structure the space of my paintings.

I use bright acrylic colours, applied with large knife strokes, avoiding minute details to represent energy and vitality. My goal is to convey a vision of life through my works by capturing the traits, shapes and movements of the characters, making their representation expressive and realistic.

I represent their essence and emotions. My creations reflect various facets of my artistic personality. By combining different techniques, I explore and highlight various aspects of my style.

I apply the paint in a spontaneous and daring way, using the vibrations of the spatula and the knife to lay the material on the canvas. Inspired by my dreams and guided by my intuition, I realize my works in the early hours of the morning, letting the intuitive process guide my hands.”

— Gerardo Labarca

INTERVIEW

First of all, a bit of background. You had a successful career in the restaurant industry, what led you to make the leap into painting full-time at 47?

As an immigrant to Canada since the age of 21, it was necessary for me to work in various jobs. That's how I started as a dishwasher in a restaurant in Montreal. The years passed and I evolved in this industry until becoming a director and owner of gourmet restaurants, among the best in Canada. It is well known that working in the restaurant business leaves little free time. Painting was my escape from stress. The canvases I painted were part of the decoration of my house and my restaurants.
Unfortunately, at the age of 47, I had to declare bankruptcy of my last restaurant, Rockefeller, due to circumstances beyond my control. I could have opened another restaurant, because there was no shortage of proposals. However, I had a revelation: it was the perfect time to devote myself to what I have always loved, visual art. I have often said that it is the restaurant industry that chose me. I like to achieve perfection, but despite that, I was not living my life to the fullest. With painting, I am one hundred per cent myself and feel complete.

How has your experience as a culinary director influenced your artistic approach or sense of composition?

If I have worked so long in the field of catering, it is because managing gourmet restaurants is a form of art in itself. Good service, the marriage between wine and food, and the dishes prepared by renowned chefs that I have hired are part of the art. Deep down, I have always been an artist, and I apply it to all aspects of my life. I like to create and appreciate the aesthetics and beauty of things. When I create a work, it is a composition of various elements that I like to assemble to obtain a harmonious result. Thus, I used these skills to make each restaurant an exceptional address to discover. I make the link between everything that life has taught me and my current career as a painter and artist.

Although you're self-taught, were there any key moments or mentors that helped shape your development as a painter?

Artists such as Gustave Klimt, Alfons Mucha and Frida Kahlo have been a great source of inspiration in the development of my art. The use of gold leaf is starting to become a distinctive signature in my works. Some of my creations are very structured and arranged on the canvas in a way that recalls posters, while my self-portraits bring a self-descriptive aspect to my achievements. I experiment with various materials, textures and light effects. My canvas serves as a laboratory for trial and error, and it's this one that my collectors buy, because I don't make a draft to anticipate what I will create. All my experiments occur on a single canvas, which is the original and final result.

Your paintings are known for their expressive portraits. What draws you to the human figure as your main subject?

The expression of a look and the position of the hands reveal a lot of the feeling I wish to show. Even when it's not a self-portrait, I identify with the character on my canvas. It is an intense communication between the subject and me throughout its creation.

You often work with spatulas and knives rather than brushes. Can you tell us more about this technique and why you chose it?

The spatula, a true extension of my imagination, has become the essential tool of my creations. With each stroke of the spatula on the canvas, I discover a vibrant universe of colours that intertwine without ever getting lost. I particularly appreciate this unique effect where the hues, superimposed in an energetic way, reveal unsuspected nuances. The texture,thick and bold, tells a visual story that captures the eye. Each application, each gesture is an exploration; I preserve the richness of these materials, preventing them from mixing too much so that each colour retains its own character.

Your works balance realism with spontaneity. How do you achieve that harmony on the canvas?

My canvases, seen from very close up, reveal themselves as a universe of textures and shades, where each stroke of the brush, thousands in total, meticulously constructs a captivating abstract effect. Each touch is an invitation to explore the depth of my creations, revealing layers of colour that testify to hard and passionate work. When these great works are observed from afar, their magic operates: the colours blend and intertwine harmoniously, creating a surprising realism that awakens the imagination. It is this dialogue between abstraction and reality that gives life to my paintings, revealing the very essence of art.

You mention that your paintings are guided by intuition and are often created in the early morning. Can you walk us through your creative process?

In the garage of my house, transformed into a workshop, I find refuge in the heart of a dense forest. The Canadian winter,with its harsh cold, exacerbates my emotions and inspires me deeply. Every morning, from 5 o'clock, I immerse myself in creation. To evoke my Venezuelan origins, I recreated inside a tropical environment, populated by lush plants that contrast with the white of the snow. My faithful companion, Cassim, accompanies me, while my fish swim peacefully and the birds fly freely. Classical music, jazz and Venezuelan rhythms nurture these moments of intense creativity. All my tools are neatly organized, at hand, ready to bring my visions to life. Working in complete solitude, I dedicate myself entirely to the silent exchange between me and my canvas, far from the interruptions of the outside world. It is a space where art and emotion merge.

You also draw inspiration from wildlife and timeless icons. What role do these themes play in your artistic message?

Since my childhood, I have always watched documentaries on wildlife and its importance to the ecosystem of our planet.It is concerning to see how certain animal species are in danger of extinction. Through my portraits of animals, I wish toexpress my point of view and my concern on this subject. The timeless characters have been a great source of inspiration for me, whether they are singers, musicians or Hollywood stars. They influence my artistic work, and I feel connected to them by painting those whom I have always admired.

Beyond technique, what emotions or ideas do you hope viewers take away from your work?

I just had my first solo exhibition, where I presented about twenty of my works in a large format. Since I started painting full-time, social networks have been my first link with customers. The people who bought my works were able to see concretely how they are made. This time, I had an impressive amount of people following me since the beginning of my career as a painter. The most notable moment for me was when, in person, they told me about the feelings they felt while looking at my works in real life. I even noticed some tears.
My work is a reflection of my own life. People feel inspired by my career change, lifestyle and work. I think theyappreciate this combination. Through my animal portraits, I would like to raise awareness about the importance of life and respect for nature.

Lastly, what are you currently working on, and are there any upcoming projects or exhibitions you're particularly excited about?

I created the group ONE FOR ALL – ART, which allows established and emerging artists to present their works online. My goal is to offer them the same visibility that allowed me to sell several of my creations. On our page, we debate many topics concerning the art industry. Thursday, July 3rd, I am organizing the first exhibition from my group. Forty-six artists have been selected for a non-profit collective exhibition at the Perkins Gallery in Melbourne, Quebec. For many of them, it will be their first experience in a gallery, which I am very proud of.
I will also hold another solo exhibition in October. I think that showing my works physically allows people to appreciate my work more. Moreover, these moments offer a valuable opportunity to exchange with the audience.

Artist’s Talk

Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.

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