Hiding Sun in a Finnish Winter Painting

Rafael Guerra was born in Recife, Brazil, one of the oldest and largest cities in Brazil, and a cultural centre with an active market for art. Following his passion for nature, he majored in Biology at University. However, his desire to study and observe nature led him to explore his ability in painting, leading him to move to Italy at the age of 21, where he began his studies in Drawing and Painting at The Florence Academy of Art (FAA). During his time at the Academy, his work received a number of different prizes, including a special scholarship award that granted an extra year of studies after graduating. During this year Guerra worked alongside Director Daniel Graves in his studio in Florence, whilst also taking on the role of an assistant teacher in the FAA Intensive Drawing Program for one year. After fully graduating, in 2013, Guerra taught for 2 years at the FAA, before moving to Finland, where he currently lives and works, having a private studio in the city of Loviisa. He also intends to build a private studio in Brazil, in the coastal city of Olinda, dedicating his time painting and teaching between the two countries. In Brazil, Guerra exhibits his work at the Galeria Ranulpho, in Recife, and in Finland, in various locations. On his work, Guerra tends to be influenced by his love for nature, for tales and myths, and fantasy related aspects of life. He draws inspiration from the nature around him, especially in forest-covered Finland, where he lives most of his time. His works reflect this passion for natural things, incorporating aspects of a rustic, natural life, with vibrant dramatic colours portraying the beauty of the natural world.