Celebrities
Jackie Gleason
5” x 7”
Acrylic on Cardstock (Gel Plate)
1/23/2026
The mail art movement continues to ground my practice in connection and exchange rather than exclusivity. I am drawn to its democratic spirit, where artwork travels hand to hand carrying stories across cities and communities. Through my continued involvement I explore the people culture and history that define South Florida, using each piece as a visual postcard that reflects what makes this place layered vibrant and unforgettable.
For this portrait I chose Jackie Gleason, an entertainment legend whose larger than life personality left a lasting imprint on American television and on South Florida itself. His presence in Miami Beach during the height of his career helped shape the cultural identity of the region, blending glamour humor and showmanship. To me he represents a chapter of Florida history where performance and place became inseparable, and where the spotlight extended far beyond the stage.
In this painting I leaned into texture and contrast to give his image a weathered yet iconic quality. The soft blue background nods to coastal skies and ocean air, while the bold dark tones of his suit anchor him with authority and charisma. I allowed the surface to remain raw and tactile, embracing imperfections so the portrait feels lived in rather than polished, echoing both the grit and glamour that define South Florida.
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Private Collection
IG: @elvissantanaart