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Luis Abreux was born in Havana, Cuba in 1971, but has lived in Austin, Texas since 2005. Abreux has created art since childhood, encouraged by his mother, and earned his art degree at La Academia de Arte San Alejandro. His vibrant style resonates with viewers and has attracted both island and international collectors.

 

“Fantasy is part of reality in Cuba,” Abreux says. “We are a happy, joyous people by nature, and our joy escapes into fantasy to keep that spirit alive despite shortages and lack of opportunity. For Cubans, deprivation equals creativity.”

Abreux’s striking use of bright color contrasts with deft and subtle undercurrents that evoke the tension between hope and restriction, between conformity and free self-expression. His larger works are filled with figures. “It reflects Cuban society, as we like to get together, to be in groups,” he says.

 

“The combination of whimsy and mystery in Luis’ work draws viewers in again and again, to find something new each time” says Gallery St. Thomas owner Claire Ochoa.