Jaret Leon

“The ancient ritual of producing mezcal has been passed down in my family from generation to generation. Growing up submerged in the mezcal cul- ture has given me the opportunity to develop a special connection with the process, the earth, and the people who sustain it. Together, these themes have been a constant in my work, whether represented by an ele- ment in a particular piece, or by providing an atmosphere to embrace my creative process. Another meaningful source of inspiration has been ancient cave paintings found in places like Yagul and Gula Ncquitz in the area of Tlacolua de Mata- moros, one of the municipalities of the state of Oaxaca, which is where I was born, and currently live. My work has been influenced in varying de- grees by the movements of expressionism and cubism, artists James Ensor and Bill Viola, and writers Baudelaire and Carlos Casteneda. Using my preferred media of painting and drawing, I give a form to my internal dialogue on life, my dreams, my family, and surroundings, Based on the Principle of Correspondence by Hermes Trismegisto which says, “as above, so below” I look to create a space where opposites can co-exist in the same image, and hopefully start a dialogue between the piece and the viewer. Prussian Blue is the most common color in my work, which you will find in several values. I have found that the use of Naples Yellow and Alizarin Pink in these pieces creates an impactful visual experience. The conception of the majority of my work comes from stimuli such as music, my own sketchbooks, and direct contact with nature. Whether I have a starting idea or intention for a particular piece, or if I am just working freely and exploring, I try to create the right atmosphere to disconnect from reality and allow the pro- cess to play out naturally, without inhibition.”

Invoking with Music

Oil on canvas

31.49" x 47.24" x 5 cm

$1,700.00

2022