Camila 2009

Every time an everyday object is portrayed in a painting it gains a certain presence that isn’t found while it remains in the real world; now it represents something other than itself, it becomes a symbol. It is the mysticism of the inanimate that, whether it’s a bottle or a key, once it is removed from its role in the world it becomes something new, something greater. Based on this idea, and inspired by Latin American “Tigua” art (Toaquiza), the works of Gennady Privedentsev, Daniel Sprick, and Henryk Fantazos, I was motivated to create Still Lifes that emphasize this concept, while incorporating magical realism, with human temptation and sin.

My depictions are inspired by the Latin American artistic movement (genre) of magical realism, where one accepts illogical elements and magical scenarios that appear in realistic or “normal” settings. This movement contributes by revealing the internal mysteries of the mundane with extreme reality that then embraces these magical features.
In each of my pieces a realist, yet magical, juxtaposition of objects is found. Each represents one of the seven capital sins, or the most abhorrent human vices. Each has its own mystery connected by a common motif of nature, tree roots. These remind one of the intertwining human nature and its connection with deadly plants.

The flowers and leaves are all from the same family, Solanaceae, which are distributed mainly around Latin and Central America. Most of these species are known for their medical uses and their psychotropic effects or as toxins. For that reason, I’ve decided to incorporate them; they are attractive, yet harmful… like a sin; tempting, but toxic.

Narino Oils
Chimila Oils

Avaritia Oil Acedia Digital

Superbia Digital

Superbia Oils

Gula Oils