Meet Judy Gaggero | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Judy Gaggero and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Judy, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I grew up in a small town in the middle of Kansas, with big blue skies and open spaces. As many artists, I was drawn to art at an early age. My first memory at three years was a Crayola scribble drawing for my parents for Valentines Day. It was orange, not red, as I didn’t know my colors. When I did learn them, my favorites were magenta and cerulean blue, which found their way into many coloring books, spilling outside the lines, and pushing the boundaries. As I grew I drew on my Etch a Sketch. Never satisfied, I would swipe it off, and draw something new, trying to make it better. In High School I had an art teacher whom I loved. She taught us the basics and then gave us the freedom to be original. She actually drove me to the University of Nebraska where I won a best of show award! I was over the moon, and it gave me the confidence to move ahead. In College I absorbed art like a sponge. I learned gesture and live model drawing, painting, sculpture, interior design, art history, etc. Along with school, I redesigned a restaurant and did commission paintings to earn extra money. Throughout, I was fortunate to have a structured middle class upbringing, but also have the freedom of a small town to explore nature and my imagination. My father always told me that I could be anything that I wanted to be, and art was my priority. Creating in some way has always been a part of me.
 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
In my adult life art has never left me. There have been many obstacles but also many rewards. I’ve been told that “persistence is my middle name” so I have just kept going and enjoying. I taught watercolor painting, and was privileged to learn and grow from the greatest watercolorists of the time. I developed a loose but representational style, painting landscapes, seascapes, and flowers. My paintings are in many private and commercial collections. I owned an interior design business, and did both residential and commercial projects from color boards to finished projects. Later on with moves from California to Connecticut to North Carolina, I became a real estate broker and company owner. Working with custom builders, architects, and landscape architects we created state of the art plans and homes. I have also designed and built four personal homes. Florida is my full time residency and Art my full time profession.

Through it all, travel has been a major influence. Privileged to see much of the world, I’m fascinated with the earth’s beauty. A few years ago, I transitioned from painting with acrylics and watercolor to alcohol and ink which, for me, carries creativity to a higher level. The medium is magical. It allows me to capture movement and light, and develop vibrant color combinations, and shapes. The incredible challenge is to create works that show the essence and dynamic spirit of nature. The goal of my paintings is for the viewer to feel joyful emotions.
You are welcome to visit my studio in Palm Beach Gardens, 11300 Legacy Place. We are open from 12:00PM to 5:00PM daily.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well, I would have to say that my number one place to go is the beach. It is the place where I find inspiration for painting. I love to take long walks, and just sit on the sand and watch the mesmerizing waves. It’s the best relaxation therapy for our busy lives and a gift to offer a friend. And for culture, I love the Kravitz Theater and Drama Works and of course, the wonderful, local art galleries. And restaurants? There are so many in the area to choose from. Different flavors for different moods and you cannot rule out happy hour!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
This may sound trite, but my family and friends are my most invaluable support system. My one and only exceptional husband, two beautiful adult children, and five wonderful grandchildren are always there for me. Each one is very special in their own way. Also, I am blessed with many friends; art, tennis, golf, bridge, volunteer and travel. They are with me through “thick and thin” bringing joy and laughter.

Website: judygaggero-artist.com

Instagram: judygaggero

Facebook: Judy Gaggero