Bio
Tony Monsanto (1946 Curaçao - †2014)
Tony Monsanto’s work incorporates contemporary issues like environmental and social subjects and dealing with the complexity of our Caribbean identity and reality. The migration of our people to the economical centers leads to a 'brain drain' and stagnation of our economy. As a reaction to the demands of the harsh reality, some seek mental support in the mythical world of ancestral African religions. While the stereotype images combine clear blue waters, sandy beaches, palm trees, cool cocktails, tanned bodies, drum beating musicians, carnival parades and attractive dancers into a picture postcard view of the Caribbean, the population struggles with unemployment, low income, political indecision as well as drug, gambling and alcohol addiction.
After having lived abroad for a number of years, Monsanto returned to Curaçao in 1999. From then on, he worked as a full time artist. Monsanto passed away in Curaçao on January 25, 2014.
