Harry Villegas is an abstract expressionist painter whose unique style draws heavily from his background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), where he holds a black belt. His combative approach to art allows his movements and forms to transcend onto the canvas with striking intensity, creating works that are both dynamic and deeply personal.

Harry began his journey in BJJ at the age of 22, training under the guidance of Carley Gracie “The Lion of the Gracie Family.” Carley, a pivotal figure in the BJJ community and the son of Carlos Gracie, the founder of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, became a profound influence in Harry’s life. Known for his sharp technical skills in the dojo, Harry earned the nickname “Harry the Lion” from Carley, a testament to his prowess and dedication.

A native of San Francisco, Harry grew up in the 80s skateboarding and graffiti tagging scene, and was part of the skateboard crew "BBB" - Bombay Bombers. Amongst the skateboarding community, he was known for his fearless power slides down the hills of 9th Avenue. Harry frequently used the Parnassus bus as his makeshift "ski lift" to repeatedly push his limits on a skateboard. Tommy Guerrero, a legendary skateboarder who lived in the neighborhood, was among the notable figures who inspired Harry during his skateboarding days.

These early life experiences have profoundly shaped Harry's artistic journey in his recent years. In 2018, Harry ventured into abstract art, weaving the art and discipline of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and skateboarding into his personal expression. Much like navigating the urban landscapes fearlessly on his skateboard, Harry now approaches each canvas as uncharted territory to conquer, infusing his paintings with a blend of energy, emotion, and controlled chaos. This fusion of physicality, spontaneity, and calculated technique defines Harry's distinctive artistic style, resonating deeply with viewers.

Artistic Philosophy

Harry's approach to painting mirrors the disciplined, yet fluid nature of Jiu-Jitsu. He views each canvas as a battleground where his emotions and techniques harmonize, resulting in works that speak of struggle, resilience, and beauty.

In addition to his martial arts influences, Harry draws inspiration from renowned abstract expressionist artists like Sam Francis, William de Kooning, and Joan Mitchell. Similar to Sam Francis' vibrant colors and energetic brushstrokes, Harry incorporates bold hues in his paintings, creating movement and emotion. De Kooning's exploration of form and abstraction also resonates with Harry's vision, as he navigates the boundaries between representation and pure expression in his artworks. Joan Mitchell's dynamic and gestural approach to painting, coupled with her use of bold, sweeping strokes, inspires Harry to infuse his works with a sense of spontaneity and vitality, capturing the essence of raw emotion and unmediated expression.

Combative Creativity

In Harry’s work, the canvas becomes an arena where form and movement dominate. Just as Jiu-Jitsu involves strategic engagements and fluid responses, Harry’s paintings reflect dynamic action and reaction. His brushstrokes are vigorous and decisive, embodying the spirit of combat and control.

Transcendence Through Form

Harry is captivated by the transformative potential of abstract expressionism in conveying emotions and concepts that transcend mere representation. He draws inspiration from the insights of art critic Clement Greenberg, whose emphasis on the intrinsic qualities of paint, canvas texture, color, and composition deeply resonates with Harry's artistic vision. This approach liberates him from the confines of representational art, enabling him to delve into the profound depths of human experience. Through his art, Harry aims to connect with viewers on a visceral level, inviting them to immerse themselves in the unfiltered intensity and inherent beauty of unmediated expression.

Conclusion

Harry Villegas’s art is a fusion of physical discipline and artistic freedom. By channeling the principles of Jiu-Jitsu through abstract expressionism and drawing inspiration from artists like Sam Francis, William de Kooning, and Joan Mitchell, he creates works that are both confrontational and evocative. His paintings stand as a testament to the power of form and the endless possibilities of artistic exploration.

At his Avant-garde MOMA online gallery, Harry invites you to witness this unique blend of combat and creativity. His works are more than just paintings—they are experiences, battles fought and won on the canvas, capturing the essence of struggle, resilience, and the profound beauty of the human spirit.

Contact Harry for inquiries: 

T: (415)254-8888

Email: playlandharry@icloud.com