SOUTH FLORIDA – Romero Britto is a prolific pop artist who's been painting since he was 8-years-old. His iconic style is awash with youthful optimism.
"So many incredible things happen with my art, and I am so happy to share my work every day with so many people out there," Britto said.
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His paintings and sculptures have been exhibited in more than 100 countries, including the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris, France and London's Hyde Park. Most recently, Britto was chosen as the Ambassador to the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
"I want to create art, and I want my art to be the art of inclusion, but not of exclusion," he said.
It's why from galleries and museums, the Britto brand has exploded to retail stores and theme parks to include small collectibles, clothing, luggage, cars, and just about anything you can think of -- and put a paint brush to. Britto gave Local 10 an inside scoop on what's next on his agenda. Will there be a Britto Theme Park sometime in the future?
"Yes. We are working on that," he said.
From big ideas to a huge heart, Britto is profoundly philanthropic. He's given back to countless nonprofits and is now making a difference for Local 10's Gratigny Plateau Park Project, which is at the cusp of a glorious rebirth.
"I want my art to be an instrument to put people together to do something for someone else," said Britto. "I definitely like the idea of being part of the process, of building up things, and adding, elevating people's lives."
To raise funds for the construction and maintenance of Gratigny Plateau Park, Britto will be painting a one-of-a-kind original live on our Local 10 news on Thursday starting at 5 p.m. He is creating it exclusively for Local 10.
"For sure we are going to keep it a surprise," said Britto. "We are going to make sure everyone comes and sees the whole development. For sure it's going to be about happiness, about good vibes."
It's also going to be for a good cause. It will be a true Britto masterpiece you can bid on right now. Our online auction is already under way. Auction Company of America, which is based in South Florida, is hosting the auction. Go to www.proxibid.com/auctioncompanyofamerica to register and place your bid. The bidding starts at $2,500.
One hundred percent of funds raised will go to the Parks Foundation of Miami-Dade and benefit Gratigny Plateau Park. The Parks Foundation of Miami-Dade was founded in 2004 as a 501(c)3. The Foundation is leading efforts to maintain, improve and expand the assets of Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces, as well as municipal park systems throughout Miami-Dade County.