Interviews
Oscar Garcia
I am an American (b. 1958) self-taught artist from San Antonio, Texas. I began my artistic journey in the late 70’s, despite little art formal art training using the language of color, form and gesture. Abstraction and Figuration are interchangeable in my art practice. I began exhibiting in 2000 and online since 2003.
Artist: Oscar Garcia
Based in USA
Instagram: @artbyoscargarcia
Culturally features:
"Head and Sentiment: Dreams of an Artist", May 29-July 30 2021, Milostka Center for Exhibitions
What do you aim to say by the themes in your work?
My current work explores the isolation we find ourselves in during a pandemic. I find we are now living very much in our heads on a daily basis. Using the archetype of these androgynous heads speaks of the distractions we create during extreme events we are exposed to in a media driven world.
Where does your inspiration come from?
I find inspiration in my immediate environment. Images from media sources such as art books, videos from YouTube, Pinterest and my current playground Instagram. Art Brut is a movement I identify with as a self-taught artist.
How would you describe your creative process?
My creative process involves intuitive mark-making in my abstract mode. Drawing is an integral part of my figurative forms. Blurring the lines between abstract and figure is my favorite place to explore.
What is integral to your work as an artist?
I like to think my images are saying what it feels to be isolated and at the same time, as a creative person, feeling free to re-create ourselves with this new beginning we now face. The human condition is a universal theme ripe with possibilities during these times.
Do you have any experiences that have impacted your art?
On a trip to Barcelona, Spain in 2004, I was fortunate to see art by Spanish painters Picasso, Miro and Tapies. Discovering cave art and Petroglyph rock art of the Lower Pecos river canyon in southwest Texas changed the focus of my abstract art.
What advice do you have for aspiring artists?
I would advise aspiring artists to follow their bliss and make art everyday even when they may not feel like it. A consistent work practice-no matter what it looks like, will bring you to a place where you will eventually find your art self.
