It’s Vic Garcia’s World, and He Wants Us All Living In It
In a former life, the Miami-based Garcia was a business student in Boston creating simple pen and marker drawings on copy paper, with no aspirations of professionally pursuing art. Those drawings quickly grew into an entire universe of unique characters, and his creations, teeming with color and personality, have featured on clothing, canvas, murals and more – all with the goal of spreading positivity and happiness to everyone who sees them.
Vic tells us more about the philosophy behind his work, where he draws his inspiration and the creative projects that he finds most meaningful.
JL
What influences and inspirations do you draw upon when creating your vibrant and joyful art pieces?
VG
First and foremost, thank you for having us in The Innovator! I say “us” because I’m not on this dream alone — it takes people’s love and support, and this family is constantly growing!
Within all my work and mediums, I try to incorporate all my positive messages and characters. They all exist constantly in my brain, so I bring them to life when I go to work. I’m also constantly grabbing influences from everyday life and other creatives I’m studying. Lastly, I want my work to make people feel good and disconnect from the crazy world we live in, so that’s a priority.
JL
Can you share a specific memory or experience from your upbringing that has had a lasting impact on your art?
VG
Yes, a teacher when I was younger told me to stop drawing stick figures. Now, I do those in my paintings in honor of her! Even though she was doing it with good intentions and wanted to enhance me as an artist, I feel there was a negative aspect to it as well. You can’t put a stop to someone’s creative push — you must allow students to find themselves and explore in whatever shape or form they want. One of my greatest goals is to inspire youth, so I want to show that if you do what you want to do and love, you can accomplish so much.
JL
Are there any particular sources or mediums that you turn to for inspiration, such as music, people, places, literature or travel?
VG
Definitely! I always say I’m a student of this world we’re all blessed to live in. It’s a big place, so there’s a lot to take in and learn from: Music always gets me right. Travel is always impactful as well, because learning about different cultures and ways of life can only make you stronger in whatever dream or career you choose.
JL
How do you balance seeking inspiration from external sources with staying true to your own unique artistic voice?
VG
I’m always taking notes as I walk the path of life, and I soak in all it has to offer. Life is truly a blessing, and because I’m pushing out positivity and happy art, I leave the negative at the door. I make art so people can feel good and connect with the Vic Garcia World I’ve created! I’m also not trying to copy anyone, so I do it all with my own DNA and flair.
JL
You’ve worked on a lot of cool projects throughout your career. Can you discuss a specific piece or series where the inspiration behind it was particularly meaningful or impactful to you?
VG
Any chance I get to give back to the community and people who need it the most is what I would consider the coolest.
Getting to touch people in those moments through my art is the most powerful! Art is magical, so to donate my time and leave something for them to enjoy daily, even if they’re dealing with the hardest of times, gives me so much joy. Homeless shelters, schools where bullying exists, special needs centers and children’s hospitals are just some of the places I’ve impacted with VGW that are still sending me videos and messages of hope.
JL
How do you cultivate a creative environment or mindset that consistently sparks inspiration and innovation in your art practice?
VG
I tell myself daily how big this world is! I know there is still so much to accomplish with my work. I try to not get stuck in what I’m doing today and always think to the future! One day I’ll look back and think, “Wow, I did this and that,” but hopefully there’s always work to be done and opportunity to enhance this big dream.
JL
What do you hope viewers take away from experiencing your art?
VG
My positive messages that you can find throughout mediums — from walls to canvas, sculptures and Vic Garcia World the clothes. Also, connecting with all the characters I have to offer, especially with one that maybe reflects them.
I’m always striving to touch others with my art, and I also want people to feel like when they were children and there weren’t as many worries! That’s the beauty of VGW!
JL
Can you discuss the significance of celebrating joy and color in your art, particularly in today’s world?
VG
Using bright colors and positive messages is an extension of me, so that’s what I portray and want to give back to this fragile world. So far everyone who has been introduced to it has been able to connect and fall in love, and the family continues to grow. I always say Together We Make This World Better! So let’s do it — inspiring the next generation starts with us!
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