About the artist

Garwin Gaari (born 1986) is a Curaçao-born artist based in the Netherlands. His passion for drawing began at an early age and continues to drive his work today. His journey of creative self-expression led him to study at three art academies in the Netherlands, including the Willem de Kooning Academy in Rotterdam.

Gaari’s art is a reflection of his vision of freedom—freedom from restrictive systems and freedom of the mind. He believes in fostering a mindset where individuals feel empowered to live authentically and explore their unique potential. His personal experiences have shaped this philosophy, inspiring his work and his mission.

Through the GAARI ART movement, Gaari invites individuals, communities, and organizations to engage with art as a catalyst for transformation. By making his work widely accessible, he aims to break down barriers and create a space where creativity and conversation thrive. The movement also provides a platform for emerging artists, encouraging them to share their voices and stories.

About the art

Garwin Gaari creates bold, large-scale portraits that are vibrant and full of life. His style is a fusion of early influences, including manga and comics, combined with an abstract and dynamic approach to color. Gaari’s work is often associated with pop art and “spontaneous realism,” a technique that defines his process.

Each painting is a journey of instinct and expression. Gaari selects his colors intuitively, allowing them to emerge organically during the process. He intentionally leaves the layers of brush strokes visible on the canvas, resulting in uniquely textured and striking pieces with bold, unexpected color schemes.

“Through my paintings, I see the reflection of my own growth.” – Garwin Gaari

A selection of GAARI ART portrait subjects includes iconic figures such as: Andy Warhol, Audrey Hepburn, Colin Kaepernick, Daft Punk, Einstein, Erykah Badu, Johan Cruyff, John Travolta, Kim Jung Gi, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Mary J. Blige, Michael Jordan, Mona Lisa, Muhammad Ali, Pharrell Williams, Samuel L. Jackson, Snoop Dogg, and Tupac.