What does it mean to be an artist?
Artists do not create, they restore existing elements to life. Artists are interpreters, translators of emotions, ideas or random thoughts that sometimes are complex to understand or too mundane that we may take it for granted. That said, doctors, lawyers, drivers, teachers, painters, dancers, and any other person can be an artist translating the world around them to connect with other human beings.
What is the function of art?
Catharsis, not by the simple act of doing “art”, but by exercising the technique, challenging or supporting strong statements for ‘artists’ and audience alike.
What is more important to you the process or the result?
Although they are cyclical and with different levels of relevance depending on the project, the part that I enjoy the most is the process. Research, development, planning, exploration, talking to people, improvisation, intuitive procedures and adjustments that build an illustration or a project.
Do you label yourself as an artist?
Artist pursuing a human degree.
Carlos J. Matallana
manualofviolence.org
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Carlos J. Matallana was an Exhibiting Artist in AnySquared’s Fall 2014 Because Art Exhibition.