Gerardo Ramirez
deCERCA San José, October 8 2022 – January 9 2023
What is the place of an artist if not that of producing, making, and creating? Gerardo Ramirez’s place is that of a stubborn and free individual. He has always done and will continue to do whatever he pleases. Even today, at the age of 74, he never stops producing, as it’s essential for him to work in his studio. Today, that is his place.
And how much has Ramirez done in his space? He embarked on a journey to a new city when he was 24 years old, unaware that January is the worst month to arrive in the Canadian cold. He moved, sold cheese, and offered every service according to his abilities. One day, he encountered a work opportunity in a photography archive at one of the most prestigious galleries in 1980s Toronto. He met people, engaged in conversations, and presented his work. With a one-way ticket, Toronto became Gerardo’s place for over 40 years, and it was there where he truly established himself as an artist. Today, we have before us, almost a secret, a joyous reunion of his remarkable journey.
I’ve encountered Gerardo a couple of times. In Costa Rica, he has exhibited in the old Galería Alternativa; in Toronto, we coincided one summer; and in mid-2021, I met Gerardo once again, this time surrounded by decades of his work.
Today, Gerardo’s place aligns with the opening of this new space, deCERCA, an important part of that last encounter. And this will always be an artist’s place.
Konstantina Stamatiadis, deCERCA
