GERARDO RODRIGUEZ
artist/designer
Gerardo’s Cowboy started with a simple doodle of a ten gallon hat and evolved into a full collection of classic Western motifs and characters… with a touch of monster-ization! While the series shows Gerardo’s venture beyond his more iconic monster style, you’ll still recognize his characteristic touches in each work: the black on white, boldly colored shapes, and a watchful if not expressionless eye (a true cowboy trait). Pairing elements of pop art with his graphic design background and inspired by other artistic renderings of wranglers in the wild, wild American west, Gerardo presents snapshots on multiple mediums of the storied allure of the life of the cowboy.
CARLY BADKE
curator
Monster muse and business partner Carly set the scene for Gerardo’s western-inspired art display in the couple’s home studio. She pulled everyday items (a thrifted armchair, her grandmother’s hurricane lamp, an old horseshoe found on a hiking trail, and her own Justin boots), paired them with a few of their planter cacti, and arranged each piece to balance playfulness and symmetry— concepts she loves most about Gerardo’s art. As an alumna of Stetson University (yes, THAT Stetson) and cowboy aficionado herself, Carly was right at home assisting in the creative direction of this collection.
REY SPENCER
woodworker
As our exclusive partner for canvas framing, Rey hand-selected materials and built each custom wood frame to uniquely fit and emphasize Gerardo’s Cowboy originals. From sourcing rough lumber, sanding and staining, to installing the canvases, Rey artfully crafted each frame to beautifully encase each piece without distracting from its tone and story. The professional-grade result is an art form in itself and provides extra stability and protection. Rey’s handiwork is a perfect final touch fit for displaying The Cowboy collection: handsome, rustic, and modern.