Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Pablo Antonio Alvarez. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Pablo Antonio, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Hello, well growing up, i experience a lot of violence where i am from (Frank Pais, Cuba). When we migrated to South Florida, I befriended a group of young men who were the sons and siblings of older gang members (most of whom were dead or in prison). They became like brothers to me. I became addicted to certain chemistries at the age of 14. By the time I was 20, I had been in many, many fights. Not because of me, but because of my so called friends, who were always looking for trouble out there (most of them are also dead or in prison). Eventually, I had to do a reconstructive nose surgery, broke my hand twice, and my clavicle, and dislocated my shoulders 12 times. Thus, I had to get both of my rotator cuffs re-attached through surgery. This forced me to stay home for long periods of time. It was during this rehabilitation period that I discovered art. I had never even thought of myself as someone who could create anything of beauty. So I did a special program to complete my high school diploma and put myself through under-grad and grad-school. I found what I was meant to do and as cheesy as it sounds, I never looked back.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I was born in Cuba, and live and work out of South Florida. I work mainly with sculpture. Some of the principal themes in my work are the human figure, neo-biblical depiction, socialism, communism, and dysrationalia. I try to express these elements in a balance between representation and ambiguity.
As of late, my work consists mostly of Ceramics, Wooden structures, textile figures and drawings.
I am also a college professor, and the Technical Theater Director at Nova Southeastern University.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Being receptive was definitely one of them. When I first went to art school I realized that being open to ideas and information was going to be key if I wanted to improve as an artist. Keep your ears open. So look at those who came and did it before you, but also, don’t be surprised when someone who you don’t particularly care for or respect says something or shares an idea that will help your practice infinitely.
Also, hard work. Borderline obsession.
How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?
I work on my sculptures and drawings every day of my life. It’s a need for me. I am 36 years old. Since the age of 24, I have been looking for galleries to work with, and non seem to be interested. Not sure why.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.marsjupitermercury.com
- Instagram: Unitednucleartony
