We recently had the opportunity to interview Fairgrounds St. Pete FLORIDARAMA Artist John Gascot. His diorama Greetings From Mermaids’ Lair is a 3D postcard from you guessed it… The Mermaids’ Lair!
John Gascot is a Caribbean Latin artist who attributes his love of working in bold colors to growing up in Puerto Rico. While he creates in a variety of styles, “Latin Pop” paintings are his signature, a term coined by John, which combines elements from the Pop, Cubism and Folk genres and is flavored with a Latin and global sensibility. John is inspired not only by his own Latino heritage, but by countless cultures from around the world. Having been raised solely by women, feminine strength is a constant theme in his paintings.
Read on to learn more about what the experience of being part of our inaugural exhibit is like for him!
What do you want the public to take away from experiencing the FLORIDARAMA diorama you have created for Fairgrounds St. Pete?
JOHN GASCOT: A sense of fun, play and curiosity. Observe, explore and make up your own story!
What about being a part of Fairgrounds St. Pete’s inaugural exhibition is most exciting to you?
JG: To have been chosen to be part of the “first look” of an ambitious and innovative project is an honor.
What inspired your Fairgrounds St. Pete FLORIDARAMA?
JG: I took inspiration from the Mermaids’ Lair scenario, incorporating hints and clues from Fairgrounds St. Pete’s storyline.
A peek at John’s FLORIDARAMA, Greetings From Mermaids’ Lair
Who is the most significant influence in your art practice?
JG: Fernand Leger, Stuart Davis and Prince. If you don’t know them, look them up. Fernand and Stuart that is. If you don’t know who Prince is, we’re not speaking.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
JG: Know your worth.
What is your favorite FL destination or landmark?
JG: Pass-a-Grille beach, followed by our pool.
Besides Fairgrounds St. Pete, do you have an upcoming project you’d like to share?
JG: I will be creating a ground mural for The Greenhouse, St. Pete and I have an exciting interactive art show in the works for Creative Pinellas in July 2021. Stay tuned!
To be one of the first to see John’s work and get access to Fairgrounds St. Pete buy your tickets today, or join our Insiders Club for the latest Fairgrounds news.
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