Rita Gomes knows how to pack a punch. The Portuguese artist, also known as Wasted Rita, employs a variety of mediums and techniques to deliver her tongue-in-cheek impressions regarding the ups and downs of being human. These include sculpting, installation making, painting, and writing.
But illustration and drawing are at the core of what she does. “It was always my favorite hobby, ever since I can remember,” she recalled in an interview with Behind Punk. “I used to spend my time drawing alone while other kids were playing and having fun. Yep, natural-born weirdo.”
“The name Wasted Rita came up at a time of my life when I realized all the potential and talent I’ve been wasting ’till then,” she adds. “I was also probably, listening to Black Flag. But, no, it has nothing to do with being drunk all the time, I’m sorry. It’s about commitment, hard work and trying to grow as an artist every day.”
Deciding to take her hobby more seriously, she entered Porto’s School of Fine Arts to study Graphic Design. A self-proclaimed agent provocateur, she adds a healthy dose of skepticism to her work, which makes it all the more relatable. Take a look for yourself.
