GAMÉLArtist's Statement:"In 2020, I left the tech industry and moved to Palm Springs to pursue my passion for art full-time. During this time of adjustment, I worked on a painting titled  "The Other Side",  which proved to be prophetic. In January 2022 I experienced a personal tragedy when my mother passed away from COVID-19. In spite of this sorrow, I found solace and purpose in my artwork which helped me to cope. My works are unique in their use of color, space and materials, drawing on influences from the Renaissance period as well as 60's Pop Art and 21st Century design. The themes explored in these pieces reflect my struggles with life experience and strive for self-alteration. My works often combine hyperreal painting with a variety of materials such as acrylic, oil, steel, wood, transparent resin and Plexiglass to create an immersive viewing experience for the viewer.By August of 2022 I opened my own gallery in Palm Springs where I exhibit these pieces. In my continual pursuit of self-expression, knowledge and experiences, I am constantly challenging myself to create pieces that are distinctively my own. My aim is to produce artwork that tells a story of resilience and what it means to be human, ultimately striving to evoke an atmosphere of eternal search or hunger for meaning. Through this work I have found healing in the midst of tragedy and hope in spite of life’s struggles. I believe that art is a powerful form of communication and I strive to create pieces that are both informed and individualized, reflecting the depths of my soul for all to witness. My journey continues with each canvas and every brushstroke as I work towards a brighter future. Thank you for joining me in this exploration".                                                                                                 Gamél/Palm Springs, CA/September 2023Web:  https://www.jongamelart.comInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/jongamelart/email: jon@jongamel.comPhoto: Copyright Wilkinson/2023Opening and closing music courtesy the very talented Zakhar Valaha via Pixabay.To contact Wilkinson- email him at BecomingWilkinson@gmail.com