As an artist, I have the unique job of composing color, light, and energy. When I was only 16, I heard jazz for the first time and have been listening to it ever since. Like a jazz composer, I create art inspired by the world around me. I didn’t study color or drawing. I observed everything in the field of art from Rembrandt to Picasso, Caravaggio, Frank Stella, and Matisse. From each one of those great artists, I learned something in observing them. I learned how to play with shape and movement create a world full of optimism and beauty. It’s simple, very simple.
All of the things I create are filled with vibrant colors and soul. Just like the music I fill my studio with, soul is base of everything. Soul music incorporates rhythm and blues. There is an emphasis on the intensity of feelings, and this is what I am portraying through the paintings in my collection ‘Notes.’
These are special paintings for me, created using exuberant colors dancing across the staff. Once gilded with gold or silver leaf, the wooden or metal panel sits there waiting for the music. I can see the blank space in front of me, and it is devoid of song, wanting a tune to fulfill its destiny. The inspiration comes to me while I am working, not before. So the blank canvas waits for the music to pour out of me. Once we are there, together, at that moment I can tell will this piece become; hot jazz in Chicago, a New York Musical, or maybe Mississippi Rock. Then, and only then, do I get the pleasure of allowing the music to play.
I started playing with sculpture and pottery at age 13 while I was still living in Mendoza, and I have never stopped playing since. I play with colors. I play with the materials. I play with the explosive movements of sound. I play with joy. I play with jazz. When it comes to ‘Notes,’ I never stop playing.
