STRN6 INTERVIEW
6 QUESTIONS WITH MANUEL RODRIGUEZ
Beyond the Brushstrokes: Unpacking the Artistic Vision of Juan Manuel Rodríguez
In this in-depth STRN6 interview, Uruguayan artist Juan Manuel Rodríguez invites us into the realm of his creative process, revealing the inspirations and experiences that have shaped his distinctive style. We delve into six probing questions, exploring the intricate dynamics of his artistic practice, the cultural encounters that informed his journey to China, and the secrets behind his unique creative vision.
1.Your new paintings seem to have a more abstract and expressive style than your previous work. What inspired this change.
The idea emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic when I was in Australia that year. What inspired me to start this series were the images I saw from the plane while crossing the desert on my way from Brisbane to Alice Springs, as well as the drawings created by water currents leaving sediment on the surface of the earth.
questions
2. Your works often feature striking colors and textures that give a sense of energy and vitality. Can you explain your process of creating these visually striking pieces?
For me, this process is like meditation, and it's related to a state of absence. The power of these images lies in color, in the palette selection, and in the transitions between different shades and tones, where I find the greatest expressiveness and where the landscape becomes a subjective space. While shapes and textures emerge by chance and are determined by the materials and supports I'm using.
3. As an artist, you've had to face the challenges of establishing a career in Uruguay, a country with a relatively small art market. What advice would you give to young artists who are just starting out?
As a young artist, you have more opportunities to apply for grants, funds, or residencies, so you should present yourself to many calls and seek out niches in the market abroad, because our market is indeed small. However, I believe that with technological advancements in communication and transportation, it will become easier to live off art in Uruguay.
4.How has your experience in China been compared to your previous exhibitions in other countries?
In contrast to other experiences, I found Chinese society to be much more open than I expected. Curious, respectful people in their analysis, criticism, and opinions about my work. The residences I did in China seemed very constructive, offering me a perspective where different forms of thinking can coexist before a single work.
5. Could you share a memorable anecdote from your trip to China that had a personal impact on you?
I remember going for a bike ride through the center of Beijing on an Alipay bike, which impressed me
6. How do you define success as an artist?
I think success in art has to do with generating community and creating connections. There's a phrase from Confucius that says: "If you want to achieve success, you must allow others to achieve it too."
