Rising Stars: Meet Carlos Vargas of Palm Springs

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carlos Vargas.

Hi Carlos, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Barranquilla, Colombia and experienced the dazzling colors of the Caribbean which became the inspirational palette for the bright hues in my photography.

Growing up I was able to appreciate the vibrant shades of tropical colors splashed on street murals, soft pastels glazed over historic buildings, brightly colored colonial-style structures, beautifully weathered patinas of period facades and the lushness of nature.

I started taking pictures when I was a teenager. I spent summers in South Beach, Florida admiring all the neon on the art deco buildings, then on and off until the early 2010’s . Living in New Mexico, where a major section of historic US Route 66 is, presented me with a huge photographic opportunity to photograph old neon signs and various facets of Americana.

I’ve always been interested in the “mechanical arts” like architecture, automotive and neon.
In order to document disappearing art forms, I’ve focused on vintage neon signs, classic cars and mid-century modern architecture.

I finally moved to Palm Springs in September 2018. The Coachella Valley has a very robust Mid-Century vibe, which is evident in the architecture and cars, add to that palm trees, snowcapped mountains and the movie star history, and you have a magical place with amazing photo prospects.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Of course, as with almost everyone, there have been challenges, but in the scheme of things mine haven’t been big. I’m grateful for the ability to have my cameras, computer, the ability to travel and an audience that enjoys the photographs I produce.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I personally take and edit all the photographs I produce. I’m kind of a perfectionist when it comes to my work, so I have all my photographs professionally printed and framed. Most of my photographs are printed on fine art paper and framed with white gallery frames, but I do have the ability use other frames and print directly on metal and acrylic when my clients request it.

I specialize in vintage signage, primarily neon; mid-century modern architecture, mostly Palm Springs; and classic cars. My interest also extends to the tiki culture and unique roadside Americana that I happen upon in my travels. What it boils down to is a complete focus on nostalgic, mid-century life in the US.; what was in the public’s eye in the 1950’s and 1960’s. I also feel it’s important to document a vanishing art form and I’ve been able to photograph many signs that no longer exist or have been removed from public viewing.

The project I’m most proud of is the artwork I created for P&O Cruises, MS Arvia’s 6th Street Diner. I was contacted by the designer, while the ship was being built, to create the artwork for their 60’s inspired restaurant; in total I supplied them with over 30 pieces.

What were you like growing up?
I was the child that usually didn’t get into trouble, although I was pretty good at pulling pranks on adults, did good in school, observed the world around me and was very family focused. There were a few architects in my family and that’s how my love of design grew. I’m actually a degreed architect, but never was able to merge the artistry I was passionate about with the detail required in designing the layout of a bathroom. The colors of the natural world were always around me, the blues of the sea and sky; the reds, oranges, yellows of flowers and birds and the greens of plants and trees. My art and focus is the culmination of my childhood’s environment.

Pricing:

• Prints start at $70
• Framed prints start at $289

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.CARLV12.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlv12
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signfixation

Image Credits
All photos were taken and edited by Carlos Vargas