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Julia de Burgos Cultural Arts Center

Julia de Burgos Cultural Arts Center

Cleveland, Ohio

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  • Artist: Ariel Vergez

Ariel Vergez, known artistically as BlackBrain, is a dynamic visual storyteller whose work bridges nostalgia, pop culture, and allegory. Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Florida by immigrant parents, BlackBrain’s artistic journey began in a home steeped in creativity and evolved through formal training in Industrial Design at the Cleveland Institute of Art.

With a professional background in product and graphic design, BlackBrain has collaborated with world-class brands, honing a unique approach to storytelling through art. His portfolio spans murals, exhibitions, and mixed media pieces showcased globally, from Miami to Los Angeles and Cleveland. His signature style combines vivid narratives and cultural symbolism, challenging perceptions while evoking a feeling of dèjá vu—nostalgic yet refreshingly new.

Through his art, BlackBrain continues to push creative boundaries, creating works that are both relatable and enigmatic. With a mastery of visual storytelling, he invites audiences to explore the layers of history, parody, and pop culture woven into each piece.

Cowardly Bacca by Ariel Vergez
  • Ariel Vergez
  • Cowardly Bacca
Spray Paint on Wood Panel
44 x 32 x 2 in
(111.76 x 81.28 x 5.08 cm)
La Promesa Jubilosa by Ariel Vergez
  • Ariel Vergez
  • La Promesa Jubilosa, 2024
Wood canvas, aerosol, and acrylics
72 x 24 in
(182.88 x 60.96 cm)
Paraguay - Doors to Mi Barrio by Ariel Vergez
  • Ariel Vergez
  • Paraguay - Doors to Mi Barrio
Paint on Wood
80 x 31.5 in
(203.2 x 80.01 cm)
Untitled by Ariel Vergez
  • Ariel Vergez
  • Untitled
Spray Paint on Wood Panel
16 x 15 in
(40.64 x 38.1 cm)
Untitled by Ariel Vergez
  • Ariel Vergez
  • Untitled
Spray Paint on Wood Panel
10.5 x 24 in
(26.67 x 60.96 cm)
Wood canvas, aerosol, and acrylics by Ariel Vergez
  • Ariel Vergez
  • Wood canvas, aerosol, and acrylics, 2024
Wood canvas, aerosol, and acrylics
72 x 24 in
(182.88 x 60.96 cm)
 

Julia de Burgos Cultural Arts Center Artist Spotlight: Illuminating Unidos por el Arte is made possible in part by an investment of public funds from the Ohio Arts Council (OAC). The OAC is a state agency that funds and supports quality arts experiences to strengthen Ohio communities culturally, educationally, and economically.