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Bio

 Welcome to The White Rabbits, a captivating art gallery that invites you to embark on a transformative journey through the remarkable life and artistic vision of HAP_ii. Step into a realm where art becomes a conduit for profound human experiences, inspiring introspection and evoking emotions that resonate deep within.

Born on February 13th, 1981, in a small town far from the bustling city of Guatemala, HAP_ii's life began amidst adversity and heartache. At the tender age of 18, his mother made a courageous journey to Virginia, carrying nothing but her dreams and the weight of their shared past. Bereaved by the loss of his father and fueled by stories of his tragic fate in a Guatemala torn by unrest, HAP_ii carried within him a rich tapestry of untold narratives and an unwavering determination to rise above his circumstances.

Raised by a resilient trio of his mother, grandmother, and stepfather, HAP_ii experienced firsthand the struggles of overcoming tragedy and poverty. His formative years were marked by a sense of alienation and an internal battle for self-acceptance. Yet, amidst the darkness, seeds of creativity were sown, and HAP_ii found solace in the transformative power of art.

Graduating from St. Stephens & St. Agnes High School in 1999, HAP_ii left behind his first artwork, a testament to his burgeoning talent, which remains proudly displayed in the school's esteemed art collection. Grateful for the mentors and guides who shaped his journey, HAP_ii yearns to pay forward the inspiration and become a guiding light for future generations, igniting belief in their dreams.

The path to artistic fulfillment took an unexpected turn when HAP_ii enrolled at Virginia Polytechnical Institute in 1999. Pursuing a degree in Industrial Design and fueled by a passion for soccer, he was met with a series of setbacks that threatened to derail his aspirations. Injuries, accidents, and personal trials forced HAP_ii to reassess his direction, leaving him shattered and searching for a new beginning.

The subsequent decade saw HAP_ii embark on a relentless pursuit of the elusive American Dream. Engagements, ventures into real estate, material possessions, and fleeting moments of happiness punctuated his journey, only to crumble beneath the weight of misplaced ambitions. In 2009, HAP_ii found himself stripped of everything he held dear, standing amidst the ruins of his former life. But from the ashes of despair, resilience and determination emerged.

In 2010, armed with newfound resolve, HAP_ii set out on a pilgrimage to California, leaving behind familiar faces and embracing the unknown. Hollywood became the backdrop for his metamorphosis, with HAP_ii becoming an unwitting witness to the city's renaissance. The ensuing decade would bring a mélange of personal triumphs, challenges, and an unyielding pursuit of fulfillment. Amidst ever-changing landscapes, including multiple homes, careers, a global pandemic, and a brush with fame, HAP_ii discovered that true contentment eluded him.

Now, in the year 2023, The White Rabbits emerges as an embodiment of HAP_ii's journey—a collection of art that bears witness to his beliefs, experiences, and unique perspectives. Through his artwork, HAP_ii invites you to share in his quest for self-discovery and the search for meaning in a world that often defies comprehension. Each piece serves as a signpost along the winding path, an invitation to contemplate the mysteries of life and embrace the transformative power of art.

Join us at The White Rabbits Group and immerse yourself in a world where art intertwines with the human spirit, unlocking hidden emotions and awakening your senses.

-Hugo A. Prera II

Remember…there will be signs along the way.

HAP_ii by the sea with his wife on her birthday 2020.