Artist
From Peru, South America
Based in New York, US

Grimanesa is multimedia creative whose work explores community connections intersecting history, technology, and architecture. Her keen understanding of structure enables her to create monumental sculptures incorporating various elements such as video, lighting, and electronic components to create immersive environments.

G: When I was 11 years old, I loved maps. That’s how I started, with the love and curiosity for maps, memorizing and making these continental shapes, seeing such a vast world beyond my own. Drawing these distances from one point, from one continent to another, went beyond the straight lines we were taught to write on. My mother saw this fascination and, instead of drawing all over my walls, thought it an excellent idea to put me into painting classes. That is how it began, at 11 years old—since then; I have never stopped.

A: What inspires you the most?

G: It is finding the bond between cultures. Every culture has its own identity, but it is up to me as an artist to discover how we can all connect beyond what we know. I am also inspired by sending a positive message through art focusing on mental health or culture. Seeing the impact my work has on people inspires me—making the viewer take a moment to think.

A: Do you have any specific rituals while working (creating)?

G: Every project is different; no two are the same. I would say that each one ends up getting their magic!

A: What would you recommend to someone who’s new to art (an artist or just an admirer), what to begin with?

G: Especially when I lecture, I always like to share LPP: Love, Passion, and Perseverance are always required in everything we do. So, Allow LPP: love, passion, and perseverance to guide your journey.

A: Your top 3 adjectives related to art?

G: Connectivity

Relationships

Community

A: The best angle to look at art is from ..?

G: An open mind.

Like beauty, it is in the eyes of the beholder. Everyone’s taste varies, and it is essential to be open-minded when viewing art; you might learn something new about the artist, the work, or yourself.

A: The perfect phrase to start any conversation about art is:..?

G: How would you approach this?

A: Must-read books to help us talk about art (or do we even need them)?

G: Books are an incredible source of inspiration. Something about the physical book holds a special place in my heart. The pages, with stains and folds, tell a story. I particularly loved Pablo Neruda’s poetry; he inspired me.

Information is so readily available that the Internet is a go-to place for art.

A: What would it be if you could change one thing in the art world?

G: It is the world that I know and love. I enjoy hearing people’s passion for creating, collecting, or curating; everyone loves creativity!

A: Please, share your favorite quote (not necessarily related to art)

G: My favorite quote is my own, and it is also my life motto.

“I live with a constant Romance with the Unknown”

– Grimanesa Amoros

View the original article online: https://www.arvme.com/post/as-is-grimanesa-amoros