Contemporary artist Franklin Collao presents a narrative of intentional artistic maturation, meticulously shaping his oeuvre through a deliberate evolution. Born in Tijuana, Mexico, and currently navigating the cultural landscapes of Mexico City and the tranquility of Lago di Como, Collao's artistic journey is characterized by a strategic amalgamation of influences, methodologies, and a profound commitment to pushing the boundaries of conventional mediums.
Genesis of Aesthetic Sensibility:
Collao's formative years were marked by an immersion in pop visual culture, a period during which fashion magazines, art movies, and vibrant music videos cultivated an aesthetic consciousness within him. This early exposure served as a foundational aesthetic education, a lens through which he viewed the world. However, the transformative potential of this visual wealth only crystallized during his tenure at Art School, where he learned to channel this richness into a meaningful exploration of life through art.
Influential Icons:
Acknowledging the historical continuum of artistic expression, Collao aligns himself with a legacy shaped by luminaries such as Dan Flavin, Angela de la Cruz, Ellsworth Kelly, and Monet. These influential figures have contributed to the nuanced fabric of his artistic identity, evident in the sophistication and depth of his creations.
Disciplined Routines:
Operating under the auspices of a disciplined Virgo temperament, Collao's artistic process is characterized by structured routines. His methodical approach unfolds in series—meticulous research precedes experimentation and production. However, beyond this formal framework, Collao is ceaselessly engaged in his craft, dedicating a minimum of seven hours daily to the act of painting.
Medium Mastery:
A decade ago, Collao consciously embraced the exclusive use of oil on canvas, a medium traditionally steeped in artistic heritage. This intentional decision reflects a commitment to mastering a classical technique while injecting it with a contemporary sensibility. This disciplined focus underscores his dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional mediums in a modern context.
Philosophical Underpinnings:
The encapsulation of his artistic style as "Bright Infinite Rave" signals a departure from conventional themes. While earlier works revolved around dismantling borders, his current preoccupation is with freedom, light, and the intersection of Xtasis and Spirituality. In an era marked by the dissolution of distinctions between truth and fiction, illusion and reality, Collao's deliberate soft and blurry aesthetic serves as a poignant commentary on the fluidity of contemporary concepts.
Shift to Exclusive Focus:
Collao's artistic trajectory reflects a strategic shift from the multidisciplinary explorations of his early career to an exclusive dedication to oil painting. This deliberate narrowing of focus represents an elevated commitment to refine and deepen his artistic expression within a singular medium.
Symbolic Murals:
An illuminating anecdote from Collao's early career involves a large-scale mural emblazoned with the explicit message "Penetrame (Penetrate Me)," strategically placed on the Mexico-United States border fence. Contrary to expectations, the local community embraced this audacious creation, transforming it into an enduring symbol within the domestic neighborhood—a testament to the unexpected impact art can wield.
Present Moment and Artistic Transcendence:
While acknowledging the significance of past works, Collao asserts that his proudest creation is always the one currently in progress. This perspective underscores his belief in the transcendence of art; once a painting is complete, it ceases to belong solely to the artist—it becomes a shared experience belonging to the world.
Visionary Exploration:
Currently engrossed in the production of "Soft Edge Paintings," Collao's ongoing series endeavors to explore the expansive potential of oil painting. This visionary exploration seeks to create the brightest, softest paintings in his repertoire, pushing the boundaries of his artistic capabilities.
Art as a Societal Catalyst:
Collao passionately contends that art is indispensable to society, serving as a conduit for freedom, intellectual growth, and societal progress. In an era fraught with challenges, he sees art as a healing agent, proposing new perspectives and contributing to the collective cognitive shift necessary for societal evolution.
Guidance for Aspiring Artists:
For emerging artists, Collao imparts a profound mantra— "Painting is Patience and Practice." Acknowledging the arduous yet rewarding nature of the artistic journey, he encourages aspiring artists to brace themselves for the intricate and unpredictable path ahead.
To explore Collao's artistic universe, his website franklincollao.net serves as a digital atelier. For real-time insights into his studio and ongoing projects, Instagram stands as an indispensable extension.
Franklin Collao's artistic journey emerges as a testament to the deliberate and strategic progression of a contemporary master. As he continues to refine his craft, push artistic boundaries, and contribute to the societal discourse through his creations, Collao remains a beacon of intentional artistic evolution in the realm of contemporary art.
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