I’m proud to announce the official launch of my private art dealer venture, and even more honored to begin this new chapter by representing a longtime friend, fellow artist, and respected gallerist, Julio Mariño.

Julio and I first met in 2007 during an exhibition he curated in partnership with the Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Pepco Edison Place Gallery. That chance meeting led to a creative friendship that has spanned nearly two decades. Over the years, we’ve shared wine, cheese, critiques, and conversations about art, life, and legacy.

Julio first invited me into his home to see his collection and asked if I’d help represent his work. At the time, I didn’t see myself as an art dealer, but Julio did. He planted a seed I couldn’t fully understand back then, but one I’ve grown into with deep respect for his vision and trust.

Originally from Uruguay, Julio came to the U.S. in the 1990s. Prior to that, he owned a prestigious fine art gallery in Uruguay named Galería de Arte Contemporánea, which in its time became one of the most influential galleries in the Southern Cone, representing major Latin American artists, including Carlos Páez Vilaró, whom he helped curate for his first solo show. Now, at 93 years young, Julio is still creating, still curating, and still contributing to the art world. He currently curates for the Uruguayan Embassy’s Cultural Foundation for the Arts and continues to provide services in art restoration and conservation, collection management, and collaborations with the Uruguayan Embassy here in Washington, DC.

This Saturday, May 17, from 1–5 PM in Warrenton, VA, I will be exhibiting five pieces from Julio’s Ranchito series — part of his private collection, rarely exhibited, and now available for acquisition. The exhibit will also feature a selection of my own original artwork and limited-edition prints. This pop-up exhibition is more than a farewell to Washington, DC — it’s a celebration of the friendships, the creative growth, and the stories formed during my time here.

I’m looking forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting new friends as I launch this next chapter. To RSVP, click on the Eventbrite link below.

[RSVP Link]

Hope to see you Saturday.

— Juan (DoccRico)