Artist Francisco Rodriguez creates contemporary figurative paintings that capture moments in time. Visit his website to view more of his portfolio.
![painting of an hispanic woman wiht a mantilla by Francisco Rodriguez](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/3-RODRIGUEZ-Heritage-oil-40x30-1.jpg)
“Heritage” oil, 30” x 40”
I am a painter working in the medium of oil, using a representational technique.
![painting of a windmill in the Southwest by Francisco Rodriguez](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/6-RODRIGUEZ-Looking-Up-oil-36x48-1.jpg)
“Looking Up” oil, 48” x 36”
Originally from Sonora, I grew up in a large traditional family with the comforts of modern life. In contrast, I spent a great part of my upbringing on our family cattle ranch. From an early age, I knew my calling was art and began studying painting and design.
![painting of a working cowboy by Francisco Rodriguez](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/5-RODRIGUEZ-Horns-oil-11x14-2.jpg)
“Horns” oil, 14” x 11”
When I was fifteen, my earliest paintings sold in a prominent gallery and I was hooked.
![painting of a calvary reenactment by Francisco Rodriguez](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/8-RODRIGUEZ-Sons-And-Brothers-oil-20x16-2.jpg)
“Sons and Brothers” oil, 16” x 20”
After receiving my degree in art from the University of Arizona, I pursued a career as an illustrator and graphic designer. I worked as freelance talent for corporations, advertising agencies, design studios, magazines and book publishers. The set of skills that I acquired working as a commercial artist were crucial in my development as a painter.
![painting of a woman on horseback in the Southwest by Francisco Rodriguez](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/4-RODRIGUEZ-Higher-Ground-oil-36x48-2.jpg)
“Higher Ground” oil, 48” x 36”
A desire for creative freedom fueled my transition to fine art. Since then, I have devoted my attention to my passion for painting.
![painting of a cowgirl with braids by Francisco Rodriguez](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/1-RODRIGUEZ-Braids-oil-48x36-3.jpg)
“Braids” oil, 36″ x 48″
As a natural reaction to the limits imposed by years of creating commissioned work, I chose to experiment with different approaches to painting. My first efforts were loose abstract canvases. I gradually moved towards a more realistic representational style that suited my perception and intention.
![painting of an hispanic woman with braids by Francisco Rodriguez](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/7-RODRIGUEZ-Poblana-oil-12x9-1.jpg)
“Poblana” oil, 9” x 12”
My goal is to create contemporary artwork with a fresh outlook, while incorporating the classical ideal of beauty.
![painting of a woman with a floral wreath in her hair by Francisco Rodriguez](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2-RODRIGUEZ-Crown-Of-Flowers-oil-14x12-1.jpg)
“Crown of Flowers” oil, 12” x 14”
My paintings are constructed of several layers, including an underpainting and top layers with delicate glazes. I enjoy rendering the different elements efficiently, aiming to use the right hue, value and chroma in every stroke.
![painting of Regina by Francisco Rodriguez](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/11-RODRIGUEZ-Regina-oil-60x48-1.jpg)
“Regina” oil, 48” x 60”
I strive to paint subject matter that I understand. I find joy, peace and balance in the creative process.
![Artist Francisco Rodriguez in his studio](https://www.artsyshark.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/12-RODRIGUEZ-studio.jpg)
Artist Francisco Rodriguez in his studio
The inspiration for my recent Western Art series, previous Sacred Art series and other themes, are found in my own life experiences. I hope my artwork reflects the beauty that is in everyday life and inspires others.
I enjoyed looking at your portraits and paintings. I also graduated from the University of Arizona. Majoring in graphic art and illustration. I did not like graphics that much. Now I am retired and strictly paint. I am glad you like to paint.
Ann Marie
is the painting “Agape” yours? we bought it a few years ago, and love it. It depicts a Spanish madina and child in front of an Adobe wall with a window.