'Colour is the language of happiness.'

Gaston Duflos, known as Gasty, is an Argentine-born Sydney artist and designer recognised for his bold, joyful characters and the vibrant imaginary worlds they inhabit. Animals in sunglasses, birds playing different sports, playful dogs mid-adventure — his work is unmistakably warm, colourful and made with soul. Working across digital illustration, hand-painted originals, limited-edition prints and large-scale murals, Gasty creates art that feels alive and invites you to smile before you even understand why.

Growing up in a small town in Argentina, Gaston was immersed in cartoons, nature and the kind of wide-eyed curiosity that never quite leaves you. After moving to Sydney, that curiosity found a new landscape — the ocean, the huge parks, the outdoor energy, the colour of light on a hot afternoon. These became the raw material for GASTY, a creative identity built on one core belief: art must be made from the soul.

His practice is driven by a simple philosophy. Colour is the language of happiness. Faith over fear. Create first, overthink never. These aren't just slogans — they are the operating system behind every piece he makes, from a small drawing on paper to a mural that covers an entire wall. His most beloved character, Ziggy the dog, has become the face of the GASTY universe — a recognisable symbol of that spirit, alongside a growing cast of birds, animals and creatures that bring his imagined worlds to life.

As a Sydney freelance illustrator, Gaston has collaborated with clients including EssilorLuxottica, OPSM, Sunglass Hut, Red Bull x Racing Bulls F1, Waverley Council, Trademutt and Centennial Real Estate. These projects have taken his work across commercial illustration, mural painting, character design and brand campaigns — each one approached with the same energy he brings to his personal work: make something meaningful, make it colourful, make it memorable.

Outside of commissioned work, Gasty devotes much of his time to building his own artistic universe. New paintings and drawings are released in limited drops through the GASTY shop, where collectors can find original works, prints and apparel. His process — raw, honest and often shared in real time on Instagram — has connected him with a growing community of people who believe the same thing he does: That the act of bringing joy into the world through your work is enough of a reason to do it.

Whether you're an art lover or simply someone who believes the world could use more colour, Gasty's art is sure to make you smile.