Arman De La Paz, Texan, b. 2004
I focus on the sublimity of the material, the way it is able to bring awe, the specific qualities it holds, and how to harness them; I am drawn towards metal, wood, and concrete, however I enjoy dipping my ankles into as many pools as I am able to. Within my practice I explore topics of conscious behavior, eco-violence, visual linguistics, war, magick/taboo sciences, the divine, qualia, and memory retention. Beyond conceptual art, I have a large attraction towards utilitarian art (This is to not say utilitarian art cannot also bleed into conceptual), particularly that which pertains to interior design and items that exist in one’s own space, rather than a gallery. I am deeply enamored by lamps and abstract form, as well as the control in which I am able to exert over the spectrum of light they display. I am deeply interested by the bridge between functionality and visual aesthetics, as well as how to push both aspects without skewing one or the other. I believe that by existing in the same space with functional art it allows the viewer to develop an intimate, ongoing relationship with the item, transcending the normal role of the viewer into actual participation (I don’t mean to imply that all art should be functional, there is a very enticing, romantic quality of being restrained to only visual interaction, I believe both reserve space equally).
current processes that have my attention include: Smelting fine metals (silver, brass, copper), furniture making, wood joinery, non-traditional welding, tree limbs, monkey wrenching, fabric, and electroplating. Furthermore, I am highly interested in expanding my work into ceramics, glasswork, weaving, and would eventually like to gain stronger sensibilities for performance and video art
arman de la paz 