We had the good fortune of connecting with Jorge Varona and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jorge, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
The mere fact that I have chosen the life of an artist is as big a risk as almost any vocation. One has to not only create, but also keep a roof over your head. There are numerous obstacles not only for the artist but for loved ones who share his life. The challenge is to not quit, Easier said than done. I have one go at life and I am certain it is meant for me to create. I have been at it since 1977. Life has certainly brought plenty of difficulties but I am a fighter. Not only do I paint, I also act. Currently I’m starring in a full feature film about a doppelganger who due to an accident loses his memory and is pawned off as “Johnny Deep”. The movie is called “In the Deep”. You can find it @inthedeepfilm. It should be finished within the year. I also have done some singing with rock bands. Never not creating. My gallery in Miami is Onate Fine Art. See you at the gallery and see you at the movies.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My oil paintings are hyper-realism. They take me months to execute. I have been true to my art and myself. I haven’t taken any short cuts. Looking back at my work, I can say that I have succeeded. But I’m not through. The work will keep coming. I chose art, or rather, art chose me.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of the best places to go for fun is Regatta Grove. The vibe is great and people enjoy hanging with “Johnny Deep”. The Seminole Hard Rock in Hollywood also rocks. The happy hour at Earls is also very friendly.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My parents have been a huge part of my artistic life. They’ve never doubted my talent and my commitment. My wife has been a great support and has had to sacrifice much. She was a ballerina when we started out so we’ve lived the struggling life of an artist. After dance she became an elementary school teacher while I’ve continued my work. Onate Gallery has also done much to promote my work throughout the years. Finally John Human of Human Productions has given me the opportunity to also pursue acting.
Instagram: @jorgeluisvaronaartist and @inthedeepfilm and @onatefineart
Image Credits
Image credit for In the Deep poster, Human Productions.