Artist Highlight

Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, João Paulo Gonçalves, (or John Paul to his American friends) grew up with a strong love of art and passion for the ocean. He moved to the United States as a young adult and has spent most of his time living here in South Florida. Whether in Brazil or Florida, his close bond to the ocean is evident in his wide collection of abstract seascapes.
In Brazil João Paulo studied college architecture, and upon moving to South Florida took additional courses in Industrial Design at the Ft. Lauderdale Art Institute. Gonçalves’ love of architectural design has had a direct influence in the development of his shadow art creations. These fascinating sculptures harness light into shadow by strategically organizing cut pieces of wood to cast surprising shapes and silhouettes.

Gonçalves exhibits his work throughout South Florida and is well received by both private and corporate collectors across the United States. He currently lives in Pompano Beach with his wife and three children.
In addition to his love for creating art, Gonçalves has a passion for mentoring and empowering his fellow artists to flourish in their field and support themselves in their artistic career path.