KiiD PAiNTiNGS
"MAKE iT LAND SOMEWHERE"
Curated by Alejandro "ToTO" RuiZ
DESIGN &
Photography
Updated: Dec 7
By: Gurrod Cole
Alejandro "TOTO" Ruiz is a filmmaker, painter, and curator from Pomona, California. I developed a close work and personal relationship with him after participating in his show"Artist Mind" at the dA Center of the Arts. After this show, I saw an artist whom I resonated with heavily and one who I know will impact this world in his way.
TOTO always says he has no "real talent," only hard work and grit. I understand why he would make this claim, but I'm afraid I have to disagree. I would say TOTO is a perfect example of contemporary art. After seeing his work and creative process, it's easy to tell that he's in touch with his inner child. His biggest influences are Jackson Pollock and Pablo Picasso. I think this inspiration is best seen in his drip paintings.
THE FOO FIGURE
The Foo Figure is TOTO's main character; he is just a guy. He can be found on TOTO's shirts, bags, and paintings. When I asked TOTO how he came up with the Foo, he said he was scribbling on a piece of paper one day and mindlessly drew up the character. After messing around with the face, the Foo Figure grew into its entity. Inspired by Keith Harring's characters, the Foo Figure represents not only TOTO and his work but also us as the viewers. After he did this, it became a staple of his work. Personally, the Foo Figure always reminded me of characters in graphic novels and comics.
PAiNTiNGS
Many of TOTO's paintings reflect his values and inspirations as an artist. TOTO is an artist who values his community and his native city of Pomona, California. Also, through his art, TOTO has inspired the youth. He is also an art teacher, and seeing the impact he has had on his students in person has given me hope for the future of the arts in our community.
One technique that I've noticed TOTO uses often is textures. In the piece below TOTO creates an almost marble-like effect on the painting, it's reminiscent of the design of those old shitty carpets arcades had back in the day.
I appreciate that TOTO has studied the artists who inspired him and applied their techniques in his way. I'm excited to see that TOTO has also branched into clothing, and I recommend picking up one of his shirts at one of his shows.
Outside of his art, TOTO has directed a Spider-Man fan project and has worked on a multitude of different sets as a camera operator, director, and sound person.
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