Danilo de los Santos (1943 - 2018)

Danilo de Los Santos (1943-2018), artistically known as Dánicel, was born in the city of Puerto Plata. An artist, art critic and art historian, his contributions to the world of art in the Dominican Republic can never be expressed in words.

De los Santos' early artistic memories are the cardboard dolls that he created for his sister—copied from fashion magazines. His skill with the human form came to the attention of artist Mario Grullon (Santiago, 1918-1994), who encouraged the young De los Santos to pursue his artistic talent, gifting him his first sketch book.

"Grullón suggested to my mother that I join the Yoryi Morel academy. There I learned how to handle gouache, crayon and pastels and interacted with students of different ages."

His talent with the brush and other mediums have captured the attention of art critics and enthusiast in country, with various award winning works, such as his 'Marola' series, which dates back to the early stages of his career.

Danilo de Los Santos' greatest contribution to the art world are his surveys of the history of art from the Dominican Republic. A story which he has helped to shape with several publications, including; 'Painting in Dominican society,' 'The blue paradise of Cándido Bidó,' and the eight volume opus 'Memory of Dominican Painting'