We’re not sure if Ramos is the only artist who works with toothpaste but odds are he pretty much has the field to himself. As cool as exclusivity can be, Ramos’ adventures in toothpaste art are explorations in unknown territory – if there’s a guide to painting with toothpaste, Ramos hasn’t seen it (though by now he likely could write it).
“I begin by finger painting the first layer and then let it dry,” explains Ramos. “Then I throw on the next layer to begin giving it the tones required as toothpaste can almost be transparent. I keep applying coats until I get the tone I want, sometimes I have to use brushes to do the smallest details.” Well, naturally!
Though originally from Mexico, these days Ramos lives and works in Orlando, Florida. Locating in the United States has helped Ramos display and distribute his paintings easier thanks in part to interest from local galleries. Currently, Ramos’ toothpaste paintings as well as others in his celebrity portrait series are or will be displayed at a variety of galleries large and small in Florida, Hollywood and New York.
Ramos’ toothpaste portrait of the late actor and comedian Robin Williams is one of his most recent efforts. Custom framed by the artist with a double-row of toothbrushes, Ramos is planning to auction the artwork with all proceeds donated to a registered charity dedicated to supporting those who suffer from depression. “I thought it would be the best way to honor a man who gave his life to make us laugh,” stated Ramos. No doubt Williams himself would agree… with a smile.

