Meet Bayou City Art Festival-Downtown’s Featured Artist, Karina Llergo Coming on March 23-24, 2024
ABOUT KARINA LLERGO
1. Please share a little about yourself & how you knew art would be your passion:
I was born and raised in Mexico City, where my journey into the world of art began at an early age. From my earliest memories, I found myself drawn to the creative process, spending countless hours painting and sketching. The positive compliments I received from others served as early affirmations of my artistic inclination.This led me to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design and advanced degrees in Multimedia, Animation, Abstract Art, and Portrait. These academic pursuits deepened my understanding and appreciation for diverse forms of artistic expression.
While keeping art at the forefront of my mind and heart, I worked as an art director for advertising company McCann Erickson on campaigns for brands like Coca-Cola and Revlon. In 2007, a significant turning point occurred when I relocated to Chicago. Fueled by a desire to dedicate myself fully to my artistic calling, I made the life-changing decision to transition to art full-time. Since then, I have immersed myself in the art scene, continuously evolving as an artist and embracing the limitless possibilities of creative expression.
2. Little about your art skills and how you developed them.
3. Take about your concepts and what you’re communicating in your art.
My paintings are a reflection of my intense study and passionate interest in human form. I’ve develop a unique style that transforms figures into fluid entities. My background as dancer, competitive swimmer, and yoga practitioner has profoundly influenced my artistic perspective, allowing me to capture the tangible energy of the human body in motion and the inner soul, seamlessly blending elements of air, water, and dance in my paintings.
My technique involves the application of over 20 layers of oil glazing, acrylic impasto applied with palette knives and molded with my fingers to create dimensional depth. The final touch involves the application of 24K gold and platinum gilding to evoke luminous reflections.
My aspiration is for viewers not only to witness captivating images and sense their vitality but also to be moved to generate positive forces in their own lives.
4. Thoughts on being the featured artist for Bayou City Art Fest.
I’m incredibly grateful and excited to be the featured artist for Bayou City Art Fest. This event holds a special place in my heart as one of my first and favorite show in Texas, consistently welcoming my art in the most amazing ways. The enthusiasm and appreciation from patrons at Bayou City Art Fest have been a source of joy, and I look forward to making this year’s experience even more memorable.
Being chosen as the featured artist is a moment of celebration that inspires me to continue pushing boundaries. I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to be part of the Bayou City Art Fest for years to come.
5. Words for upcoming artists.
Persist in your passion with steady belief. Your unique voice holds transformative power. Embrace challenges and let criticism refine, not deter. Surround yourself with a supportive community. Cherish the process, celebrate victories, and trust in your creative journey. Your dreams are worth pursuing; the world awaits your art.
ABOUT BAYOU CITY ART FESTIVAL
Bayou City Art Festival, produced by Art Colony Association, Inc. (ACA), will return to Downtown Houston and benefit six local nonprofit partners for the Bayou City Art Festival Downtown on Saturday and Sunday, March 23-24, 2024, from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
The outdoor gallery will take over Sam Houston Park along Allen Parkway. Patrons can meet with artists, view original works, and purchase one-of-a-kind art, world-class paintings, prints, jewelry, sculptures, functional art, and more.
The weekend festival will feature entertainment stages, a food truck park, beverage stations throughout the festival, and a Chef’s Culinary Arts Stage and tasting experience featuring local chefs. Guests will enjoy Houston’s skyline views while enjoying the festival’s wine garden, and craft beer garden. Bayou City Art Festival will also feature the top 30 finalists from the Middle School Art Competition.
For the ultimate art lover, Bayou City Art Festival will offer a limited availability VIP Hospitality Lounge presented by Frost Bank, which will include complimentary light bites, beer, wine, and other refreshments. The relaxing setting under a canopy of trees will feature roaming musicians, artistic décor, a phone charging station, and more. VIPs will receive access from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to the VIP area, and VIP parking.
Online early bird tickets are available at www.bayoucityartfestival.com for $18 for adults, and all children under the age of 12 are free as part of the Kids Free Program sponsored by Champion Energy Services. Adult tickets purchased after March 15, 2024, are $20. VIP tickets are $75. Online pre-purchased tickets are required to enter the festival. Physical tickets will not be sold at the gate and can only be purchased online.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BCAF