EN 
ES 
By Juan Butten
Today, I want to remember a great friend, Carlos Alberto Goico, who was born on this day in 1952. He became an emblematic figure in Dominican painting and left us on July 10, 2009, after a life marked by poverty and disdain for his work. His journey reflects the struggle of an artist who found his voice amid adversity. Goico was not just a creator; he was a symbol of authenticity, freedom, and resistance in an environment where the commercialization of art often eclipses true artistic expression.
My first encounter with Carlos Goico was through a friend, Joselo, during our adolescence, in a time when we began exploring the vibrant colonial zone of Santo Domingo. We always entered through Arzobispo Noel Street, where we would stop at the nearest corner store to buy beers. With laughter and anecdotes, we headed to his house, where we found him sitting at the door, enjoying a cigarette and a drink.
This routine became a ritual of inspiration. We would position ourselves in front of him, greet him, and he would welcome us kindly. Conversations flowed naturally; we discussed painting, artists, and the cultural life of the area. It was an exciting moment when Carlos would share with us his latest creations. His works were authentic, full of passion, and without pretense to please anyone. In his canvases, he sought to capture the essence of what painting should be: a genuine expression of his being.
One of the most valuable lessons I learned from Carlos was about the nature of art. On one occasion, I asked him where he obtained his materials. Without hesitation, he revealed that he sourced them from printing shops and hardware stores. From then on, I understood that creating doesn’t require expensive tools, but rather deep commitment, talent, and discipline. His rebellious and unconventional approach made him one of the freest painters I have ever known, far removed from the commercial demands of the art world.
My friendship with Carlos was a constant reminder of the joy of creation. His visits were a refuge for us, a space where laughter and creativity flowed unrestricted. However, life led us down different paths, and after several months without seeing him, we received the sad news of his passing. At that moment, I reflected on his clarity; I never saw him as crazy. Rather, I felt that Carlos possessed a clarity of thought that many struggled to attain. He lived fiercely and independently for his art, becoming a testament to what it means to be a true artist.
Carlos Goico left a legacy that transcends his own existence. His work, though often ignored in his time, speaks of an authenticity that still resonates today. His life is a reminder that art is not just about what is created, but about how that creation is lived and felt. In a world where art is often measured by its commercial value, Carlos taught us that true wealth lies in the freedom of expression and in the passion for what we do. His absence is felt, but his spirit lives on in every brushstroke of authenticity and freedom he left on the canvas of life.
Carlos, may the force be with you.
