Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Carlos Buitrago. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Carlos , thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.
From a young age, I was captivated by the vibrant colors and rich cultural stories that surrounded me in Colombia. However, it wasn’t until I moved to California at the age of 16 that I truly grasped the power of art as a universal language, capable of transcending boundaries and connecting people across diverse experiences.
My artistic journey was ignited by the mesmerizing illustrations on heavy metal albums. The iconic work of Derek Riggs on Iron Maiden’s covers, the striking visuals of Ed Repka for Megadeth’s “Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?”, and Larry Carroll’s haunting depiction on Metallica’s “Master of Puppets” profoundly influenced me. These artworks were more than just images; they were portals into worlds of creativity and emotion. I would eagerly scan the album credits to uncover the names behind these masterpieces, each discovery deepening my connection to art and opening my eyes to its boundless possibilities.
As I adapted to my new life in California, art became more than just a passion—it became my refuge and my voice. Enrolling in Santa Monica College, I immersed myself in art classes, where my attention and focus naturally gravitated. The fulfillment I found in these classes solidified my decision to pursue a major in art, with a particular focus on illustration. It was a pivotal moment, one that confirmed this path was not merely a choice but a calling.
Since then, I have devoted myself to honing my craft, constantly experimenting with different mediums and techniques. My work continues to evolve alongside me, each piece representing a deeper exploration of the human experience and a reflection of the journey that brought me here.
Carlos , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I am Carlos Buitrago, a visual artist whose work delves into the exploration of human emotions and experiences. My creative process is rooted in translating emotions, memories, and societal observations into visual narratives. My work spans a range of mediums, from acrylic on canvas to mixed media, and each piece serves as a reflection of my personal journey and the broader human experience.
Some of my recent works, such as “Moment at the Gallery” and “Mystic Flower Vendor,” focus on themes like introspection, resilience, and the ever-changing nature of life. What sets my work apart is the deep emotional resonance and the layers of meaning that can be found within each piece. I strive to create art that goes beyond aesthetics, engaging the viewer in a dialogue and inviting them to explore their own emotions and stories through my work.
One of the challenges I embrace as an artist is the constant push to evolve and experiment. I believe in the importance of never becoming stagnant, continuously refining and expanding my creative boundaries. This drive to innovate is both a challenge and a source of inspiration, pushing me to create work that is not only visually engaging but also deeply meaningful.
I am most proud of the resilience and growth that have brought me to this point in my career. Each piece I create is a testament to the journey I’ve undertaken, filled with growth, challenges, and profound moments of fulfillment. Knowing that my art has the potential to resonate with others, to evoke emotions and thoughts, is what drives me forward.
At the core of my work is a desire to connect—to create art that speaks to people on a deeper level, beyond the surface. Whether you’re a collector, a fellow artist, or someone who simply appreciates art, I want my work to inspire you, to make you feel, and to encourage you to explore your own emotions and stories. My brand is built on authenticity, emotional depth, and a commitment to continuous growth and exploration.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
One aspect of my creative process that non-creatives might struggle to understand is the intense focus required to begin a painting. It’s not just about putting brush to canvas; it’s a whole process that demands hours of thought, imagination, and mental preparation before even starting to draw. Every new piece is a challenge, as I push myself to come up with fresh, original ideas to portray on the canvas.
Over time, I’ve learned to trust my instincts in art, which has given me the confidence to follow my thought process and imagination when creating new work. This instinct is deeply rooted in my understanding of colors, depth, patterns, and the willingness to embrace mistakes as part of the journey. But it’s important to note that this instinct isn’t something that comes instantly—it’s the result of countless hours of work and dedication to my craft.
Creativity is often seen as a spontaneous act, but the reality is much more complex. The creative process is full of trial and error, and it requires a delicate balance between planning and allowing for spontaneity. There’s a constant need to evolve, to experiment, and to push beyond what’s comfortable. This process can be both mentally and emotionally exhausting, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.
What I hope people can take away from this is the understanding that creativity is a deeply human experience. It’s about connection—both to oneself and to others. Even if you’re not an artist, there’s value in embracing creativity in your own life. The creative journey, with all its challenges, is one that offers a unique way to connect with the world and with others on a profound level.
Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?
Digital art certainly has its rightful place in the art community. I’ve created a lot of digital art throughout my career, and many of my canvas artworks actually began as digital pieces. In fact, some of my pieces exist both as a canvas painting and in digital form, each unique and different from the other. This duality allows me to explore the same concept in various ways, adding depth and dimension to my work.
However, when it comes to NFTs, I have strong reservations. While I understand the appeal and the potential benefits they offer, I can’t shake the feeling that NFTs have, in many cases, become a way to rob artists of their work. My instincts, which I trust deeply in my creative process, tell me that this system is not something I can support. So far, what I’ve seen of the NFT market has led me to believe that it has been more of a failure for artists than a success. The hype and speculation seem to overshadow the true value of the art, and that’s something I find troubling.
For me, art is about authenticity and connection, and I’m wary of anything that might compromise those values. While I continue to embrace digital art as a significant part of my practice, I approach the NFT space with caution and skepticism, prioritizing the integrity of my work and the relationships I build with those who appreciate it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.carlosbuitragoart.com
- Instagram: @carlosbuitragoart
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/carlos-buitrago-40283794
Image Credits
The photographs and art work are made by Carlos Buitrago.