Not everyone can claim winning third place in an international art contest at the young age of eleven years old. However Roberto Garcia Marquez has done just that. Roberto has always had a natural artistic talent and much of his work has been showcased throughout the State of Florida.
When Roberto was 21 years of age he, his twin brother and his father escaped communist Cuba in a makeshift boat in search of freedom, opportunity and human rights. They navigated for 16 hours until reaching the shores of Key West. I guess you could say it was destiny for Roberto to be here since his birthday falls on the Fourth of July.
Roberto’s paintings are unique in many ways, and easily captivate one’s heart. He attributes his Cuban roots, the love of the ocean and it’s sea life for inspiring his imagination, passion and creativity. Roberto is married to his sweetheart Liz and together, with their two beautiful daughters, own and operate Ocean Outfitters in Sunny Isles Beach. Much of his artwork fills the walls of the store, and his own original art can be found on handpainted shirts. Roberto continues to grow artistically and evolve with each piece he creates. A recent project “Elizabeth The Sea Turtle” is a four-foot sculpture of a sea turtle with a mermaid painting on its back. This sculpture sits in front of the Surfside Community Center inspiring all who walk by her to protect our oceans and sea life.
Always generous, Roberto has donated his time and talent to several local community projects to beautify and brighten neighborhoods. He and his wife are supporters of Camp Boggy Creek located in Eustis, FL. The camp offers seriously ill children the opportunity to experience camp year round in a safe and secure environment. The camp is free of charge and is completely sponsored only by donations.
In honor of Art Basel, Roberto and Liz will convert Ocean Outfitters into a mini art gallery featuring “Reflections Of The Soul”. All are welcome to attend and browse the artwork. The dates for the exhibition are December 6th (opening night), 7th, and 8th from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Refreshments will be served on opening night.
Ocean Outfitters-16850 Collins Avenue #113A, Sunny Isles Beach PH: 305-974- 0254.
