Raymond W. Gonzalez is a ceramic sculptor who employs toys and the power of human emotion and recollection in his works.  Desire, child play, adult play, and discovery provide the foundation of his art.  Employing multiple techniques, Gonzalez creates compositions from the combination and manipulation of cast earthenware fired multiple times. He then works with the incorporation of rhinestones, flocking, rubber, electronics, monofilament, automotive urethane, glitter, and plastic.  Beyond toys, Gonzalez draws inspiration from nature, the 1950s, mass production, plumbing and electrical connectors, graffiti art, and California Car Culture. His works beg interaction as one piece fits into another as do many childhood toys.  They are tactile, sparkle, and flash.  Ultimately, he questions how we played, how we continue to play, and the importance of play in our lives.

Gonzalez lives with his Boston Terrier, Boomer, in Gainesville, Florida where he maintains an active studio and serves as the Teaching Laboratory Specialist at the University of Florida. Go Gators. 

Gonzalez' work is represented by Mindy Solomon Gallery.