aRTIST STATEMENT
Through my current works, I strive to breathe life into the past, using oil paints to create portraits and scenes inspired by the rich and endangered cultures of indigenous peoples from El Salvador and Central America. My current practice is driven by a profound respect for these cultures, many of which have been nearly erased through colonisation and historical upheaval.
In my work, I blend historical texts with conversations and insights from the remaining members of these communities. This fusion of sources allows me to create evocative portrayals of what these peoples might have looked like in their pre-colonial contexts, as well some modern visual interpretations of old myths. Each painting serves as a tribute to their enduring legacies, reflecting both the grandeur of their mythological stories and the subtleties of their everyday lives.
By bringing these ancient cultures into the spotlight, I hope to foster a deeper appreciation and awareness of their histories and contributions. My paintings are not just visual representations but are imbued with the spirit of these vibrant cultures, striving to restore and celebrate their place in our collective memory.
In an era where such depictions are rare, my aim is to offer a fresh perspective on their enduring beauty and significance, creating a bridge between the past and the present for a wider audience to recognise and cherish.
EXHIBITIONS
SOLO
2020 - BEAMS, Brunswick Street Gallery, Fitzroy VIC
2019 - WEAVES, The Night Heron, Footscray VIC
GROUP
2024 - The eclectic Melbourne art show at The Fitzroy Art Collective, Fitzroy Vic
2022 - Victorian Artist Society Art School Exhibition, East Melbourne VIC
2021 - Small Works, Brunswick Street Gallery, Fitzroy Vic
2019 - Various Salvadoran artists, The Rooms of the Consulate General of El Salvador, South Melbourne VIC
2001 - Vicki Clarke and Diego Villalta, The Old Cheese Factory, Berwick VIC