Art Is An Escape

If you’re like me, you vaguely remember art class in elementary school. We learned the very basic, rudimentary rules and concepts of art. We rolled up a piece of paper into a Pringles can, dipped some marbles in different colored paints, threw them in the can, closed it, and went crazy shaking it. Bam. Jackson Pollock. We made use the kiln to create a few pottery items that our parents may or may not still use. (My mom still has her jewelry holder.) The point is, unless we continue to take classes and explore on our own, we do not really hear much more about art. 

From sixth grade through college, I wasn’t really a fan. I never went out of my way to galleries or art museums. I thought it was boring and lame, especially if the pieces were from other parts of the world. My exposure was limited memories from childhood of old Mayan sculptures, that frankly, got old. 

It wasn’t until I started dating the son of a former art dealer that I would say I began to “get art.” The house was a gallery in and of itself. Hundreds of pieces, paintings and sculptures alike, it was a sight to see. I learned about modern art and all of the innovative ways artists today are creating magic. My appreciation grew. But again, I was exposed mainly to U.S. artists, with a few outsiders, Banksy, anyone? So when I had the opportunity to tour Art of the World Gallery I jumped on it.

I spoke with Pamela, who gave me inside information about the current exhibit Interspaces featuring Oscar Saborio. I was both surprised and impressed to learn that he uses his own hands, fingers, and nails to create his work. A quote from an interview with him:

My hands and fingernails are my best tools. This is the most direct passageway between the canvas and my soul.

And through his work I can see into his soul. As with some artists, if not most artists, he has a dark past. Oftentimes when we think of mental health, it’s easy to think of what you’re currently diagnosed with, or dealing with, but sometimes it goes back to things from your past. What did you suppress before that you’re coming to face with now? 

Oscar actually began drawing at a young age, to sort of get out his emotions. It was a way for him to escape. When asked “How have the places you’ve lived and struggles you’ve faced impacted your art in the long run?” His response was genuine:

Life's battles are constant and will always influence our immediate surroundings.

The beautiful tropical jungles of Costa Rica, the flavor and kind people of Puerto Rico, and without a doubt the impactful American culture, where I always found people who supported me. The American people are positively radiant and hardworking.

All of the places in which I have lived and all of the experiences I have endured impact my artistic purpose. 

I’m sure most artists would agree with that last part. Your life impacts your art. It certainly shows in Oscar’s work. I can appreciate it now, knowing I have my own struggles. Seeing someone else’s expression helps me escape.

While the exhibit is running (through the 20th), I strongly encourage you to go experience Oscar’s struggles and triumphs and everything in between. 

 

By: Victoria Hernandez, Vox Blogger