The Russell Collection Fine Art Gallery featured Romero Britto’s works for nine days February. The Brazilian artist believes that bright colors can improve one’s mood and hopes to inspire happiness through each of his works. More than 100 of his pieces are displayed and available for purchase. In addition to the feature, Britto also hosted three Meet the Artist receptions.

By Emanuela Schneider

Born in Recife, Brazil, Britto described growing up as very challenging. “My mother was single and had nine kids, it was complicated,” Britto says. Currently residing in Miami, Britto moved from Brazil because he wanted to discover other places. But when asked about his most beloved Brazilian city, the artist picked Rio de Janeiro. “The mountains, the water, it’s all very dramatic,” he says.

Britto says his painting style does not fit into one genre— his style is his own. “It’s colorful and happy,” Britto says. The artist, who never went to art school, started painting around the age of eight. As a kid, he loved Picasso’s works and the colors of Matisse.  

Thais Madureira, a Brazilian admiring Britto’s paintings, said he is very famous in Brazil. “We know his background, how he started his life and we value it a lot,” Madureira says. She recognizes the ability of Britto’s work to bring happiness. “I simply love his work. If you’re feeling down and you look at this, it will make your day brighter.”

His favorite artists of all time are Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Picasso. Britto also wishes he could hang out with artists of the pop-art movement. “I would love to hang out with Andy Warhol,” Britto says. When not working on personal projects, Britto collaborates with brands like Disney, BMW, and Coca-Cola. He has also had his work presented in more than 300 exhibitions.