About Us

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With over 15 years of experience in the art field, working with top galleries and institutions, Rafael Vieira has gained a deep understanding of the industry's best practices and challenges.

Rafael studied Contemporary Arts at the San Francisco Art Institute, where his interdisciplinary studies introduced him to the complexities of abstraction. Under the mentorship of Carlos P. Villa, a pioneering artist and educator, Rafael was challenged to think critically about his artistic intent. Villa’s thought-provoking questions—"What is your intention behind these lines?"—reshaped Rafael’s creative approach, pushing him beyond aesthetics to consider deeper meaning and purpose in his work.

In addition to his personal artistic journey, Rafael was deeply influenced by social sculpture, a concept introduced in Villa’s groundbreaking course, "Worlds in Collision." Held at the Luggage Store Gallery in San Francisco, this course emphasized community development through art, inspiring Rafael to work with nonprofit organizations such as Art With Elders (AWE), MCCLA, and to volunteer in underserved communities across the Bay Area and Miami. His dedication to arts education earned him the Latino Maestro Award (2011) for mentoring high school students on their senior art projects.

As an educator, Rafael received formal training through the Art With Elders program, where he has provided structured guidance to elders in long-term care facilities and private retirement communities. His curriculum emphasizes art fundamentals, skill-building, and the historical context of artistic movements, helping students develop a cohesive body of work. Rafael has also created a safe and engaging learning environment for seniors, including those with dementia, ensuring they have access to meaningful creative expression.

Beyond the classroom, Rafael has led off-campus field trips to museums and botanical gardens, deepening his students' understanding of natural laws and artistic inspiration. He has also facilitated group discussions on art history and its evolution, fostering open dialogue and critical thinking. Additionally, he has guided students in preparing for exhibitions and gallery showcases, helping them gain confidence and share their work with the world.

Through his dedication to both artistic excellence and community engagement, Rafael continues to inspire and uplift students of all backgrounds, ensuring that art remains a powerful tool for personal and collective growth.