Boats & Cars

Rey’s signature series is inspired by his life’s journey. The wooden oar, found at sea, represents the experiences of migrants and immigrants who leave their homelands in search of a better future. Inspired by his childhood, these work features the elegant stepped forms, sweeping curves and layered shapes of Art Deco, old American cars and the colors of Cuban tropical splendor.

I describe my work as “abstract painting with nautical and architectural references”.

Utilizing a chisel, a traditional wood-working tool, Rey incises his drawing into the surface of his painting, providing an outline for the painting. These lines later gain further significance, either inferring the long slats used in boat-building, or creating the textured lines that remain visible in the finished work.