Gabriel Pilar Pala

Artist Statement

My mixed media paintings celebrate black and brown identities, presenting them in a vibrant and positive light that challenges the depressing depictions often seen in the media. My work pays tribute to the unapologetic personalities who raised me, capturing their joyous and proud expressions that deeply resonate with me. I strive to create a world where underrepresented individuals exist unconditionally, where their stories are highlighted and uplifted. Through my art, I aim to invoke joy and empowerment, ensuring that the warmth of glimmering smiles and brown gums are not just seen, but felt.

Biography

Gabriel Pilar Pala is a Peruvian-American & queer artist who was born and raised in West Harlem, New York. He received his Bachelor Of Fine Arts in Illustration in May 2024 from the School Of Visual Arts. Gabriel received the Silas H. Rhodes Scholarship and was given a studio in the Illustration department during his senior year with 20 other students. His thesis project, “Mélange”, a portraiture series that honors fashion expressions of the BIPOC community, was showcased in the BFA Illustration Exhibition at the SVA Chelsea Gallery in the Starrett-Lehigh Building in New York. Two pieces from Mélange, “First Grillz'' and “She My Mini Me'', won the 43rd American Illustration (AI-AP) award as a Selected Recipient and will be published in the annual American Illustration Award Book in 2024.

First Grillz - Mélange_ 2024_Oil, acrylic, colored pencil, hot glue, pearls, yarn, and braces on wood panel_11 x 14 inches

Just A Quick Cheq - Mélange_ 2024_Oil, acrylic, colored pencil, hot glue, beads and crystals on wood panel_11 x 14 inches

She My Mini Me - Mélange_2024_ Oil, acrylic, colored pencil, modeling paste, metallic chain, and beads on wood panel_11 x 14 inches

Coco - Mélange_ 2024_Oil, acrylic and colored pencil on wood panel_11 x 14 inches

They Maddd Nice, Right? - Mélange_ 2024_Oil, acrylic, colored pencil, hot glue, beads, and ribbon on wood panel_11 x 14 inches

Gótico - Mélange_ 2024_Oil, acrylic, colored pencil, clay and beads on wood panel_11 x 14 inches