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The New Contemporary Art Magazine
Miami based artist Juan Travieso brings nature to life in his colorful and geometric paintings. Growing up in Havana, Cuba, he loved being outside and exploring his natural surroundings. This passion developed into his appreciation for nature, the core component of his design oriented style. In our interview with the artist, he shared, "As a part of nature, I am aware of the fact that we are trying so hard as a species to disconnect ourselves from what we are. I feel that it is my responsibility as an artist and as a citizen of the world to give voice to the powerless species on this earth."
Since prehistory, humans have lived in close contact with wild animals. It's no wonder that animals have provided the inspiration behind most of our mythology, where animals serve as stand-ins for humans or human characteristics. Laura Ball is one such artist, who deconstructs animals into dynamic, almost mythical, designs. First featured in Hi-Fructose Vol. 31, Ball's watercolor paintings often portray a combination of endangered species, on the verge of becoming myths themselves. For her current exhibition, "Keep", at David B. Smith Gallery in Colorado, she expresses her desire to create a safe place for these creatures.
Miami-based painter Juan Travieso brings his work to life with vivid colors out of a sense of necessity. In his early days as a child in Cuba, his access to art supplies was limited because of the country's trade restrictions. As a result, Travieso has a deep appreciation for color and takes advantage of the hues available to him with his full-spectrum palette. His oil and acrylic paintings on canvas often feature geometric forms interacting with birds and other animals. Travieso uses this juxtaposition of realism and design to draw attention to the adverse effects human activity has had on nature. He views each painting as a chance to give voice to the powerless and endangered species on our planet. We spoke to Travieso about the ideas behind his paintings, as well as his artistic evolution.