Meet Franky Cruz | Multidisciplinary artist and painter

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

Hi Franky, what are you inspired by?
What inspires me as an artist? It’s the raw, unfiltered beauty of the world—the kind that doesn’t ask for permission to exist. Like a sunset painting the sky in defiance of the ordinary or a rose pushing through concrete, making a statement just by being. My journey started with graffiti and murals, turning grey, mundane spaces into vibrant expressions of life. Now, through the Vivarium Meconium Laboratory (VML), I blend art and science, raising butterflies and transforming their metamorphosis into abstract paintings. It’s about more than just creating; it’s about exploring the delicate balance between humanity and nature, using art as a bridge between the two.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art uniquely blends science, nature, and creativity through the Vivarium Meconium Laboratory (VML), where I raise butterflies and capture their metamorphosis in abstract paintings. This fusion of biology and art sets my work apart, exploring themes of transformation and the delicate balance between humanity and nature. I’m proud that my work not only creates visual art but also contributes to the conservation of endangered species.

As Thomas Paine said, “What we obtain too cheaply, we esteem too lightly; it is dearness only that gives everything its value.” My journey has been challenging, but these struggles have deepened my appreciation for my craft. Perseverance has been essential—like the metamorphosis of a butterfly, my path as an artist has required constant adaptation and resilience. I’ve learned that the only constant is change, both in life and in art, and embracing this has allowed me to evolve continuously.

The most important lesson from my work is the power of transformation. Growth often comes from discomfort and change, and this drives me to explore new ideas and mediums. My art is more than just visual expression—it’s a call to action, a celebration of nature’s beauty, and a reminder of our responsibility to preserve it.

In the end, my journey has been about embracing change, persevering through challenges, and creating art that makes a meaningful impact.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d be tempted to keep these gems to myself, but they’re too incredible not to share! For an epic tour of the real South Florida, we’d start with an airboat ride in the Everglades with Tiger Tail Airboat Tours, followed by getting wet and exploring the wild beauty of Big Cypress—fishing, spotting wildlife, and soaking in the landscape. We’d stop at the Miccosukee General Store for snacks before heading to Joanie’s Blue Crab Cafe for some classic gator nuggets, frog legs, and grouper. Back in Miami, we’d indulge in the best croquetas at Isla Canarias Restaurant, visit the sacred Ceiba tree on Calle Ocho, and enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine. A must-try is the roti and jerk chicken at B N M Market and Roti Shop in North Miami. We’d then explore some of my favorite plant nurseries down south, where we’d also grab delicious jerk chicken Jamaican patties. No visit to Miami is complete without a tour of the city’s vibrant murals—starting in Wynwood and extending throughout the city, showcasing the incredible street art that defines Miami’s creative spirit. The trip wouldn’t be complete without diving into Miami’s art scene, visiting top galleries like Nina Johnson, Central Fine, Emerson Dorsch Gallery, and M.A.S Gallery, as well as PAMM and ICA. Throughout this immersive tour, I’d share Miami’s rich history while describing the native flora and fauna. For anyone looking to experience the true essence of South Florida, feel free to contact me via Instagram—I can guide you through a tour as deep into nature as you’re willing to go, all while experiencing the cultural heartbeat of the city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely! I’m grateful for the incredible support and mentorship I’ve received throughout my journey as an artist. I’d like to give special shoutouts to Jean Sarmiento and Houston Cypress of Love the Everglades Movement (for their unwavering dedication to the environment, which has deeply inspired my work. @love_the_Everglades

Photographer and filmmaker Diana Larrea, with her exceptional eye and ability to beautifully document and capture the essence of my projects, has been invaluable. @parcialmentenublada

I must also acknowledge Oolite Arts, Locust Projects, and ICA Museum in Miami, as well as NSU Museum in Fort Lauderdale, for providing platforms that have significantly shaped my artistic growth.

Shoutout to Hoxxoh muralist half man half machine . @hoxxoh

MOCA Museum in North Miami for their ongoing support. Miami-Dade Art in Public Places and Knight Arts Foundation have been pivotal in bringing my work to a broader audience.

The AIRIE residency in the Everglades was a transformative experience that I hold dear. Finally, I’m deeply grateful to every gallery, art writer, and institution that has featured my work—each one has played a crucial role in my journey as an artist.

Website: https://Frankycruz.com

Instagram: @toolooselautrec

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TooLooseLautrec

Image Credits
Images by Zach Balber , Diana Larrea , Daze