ARTIST STATEMENT

Expressing myself through visual art has been my preferred language from an early age, and it became the cornerstone of my identity. Growing up in the lively city of Barranquilla, Colombia, near the vibrant Caribbean Sea, I was surrounded by a joyful and colorful culture that served as constant inspiration. My creative roots run deep, influenced by my father—an architect and painter—and my mother, a textile/fashion designer. For me, art is not merely an activity; it's a way of life.

In 2017, my creative journey took an unexpected turn with the onset of Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL), Tinnitus*, and Hyperacusis** This pivotal moment became a catalyst for a profound exploration of my art.The intersection of sound and daily life emerged as a focal point in my abstract paintings, infusing them with a unique depth and purpose. This transformative journey not only reshaped my artistic expression but also ignited my advocacy for hearing health.

My art serves as a means of transcending to a quiet, serene place, evident in my ongoing series, The Calm Collection. This body of work, comprised of mixed media paintings on canvas, paper, and wood panels, is crafted with the intention of transporting both myself and the viewer to a tranquil mental scape.

Through my paintings, I delve into and illustrate my relationship with sound, utilizing multiple translucent layers and washes of ink and acrylic paint. Each layer lays the groundwork for intricate yet soft lines, weaving a story mirroring the undulating patterns of sound waves. The repetition of lines acts as a form of meditation, providing a safe space to quiet external and internal noise.

Another recurring theme in my paintings is negative space surrounding the focal point, symbolizing the act of masking sound—a parallel to my real-life experience with Sound Therapy. This therapy involves gradual exposure to sound to desensitize my auditory system, alleviating my negative reaction to certain frequencies causing pain and discomfort.

At its core, my painting process is intuitive. Approaching each piece layer by layer, I allow each brushstroke to respond to the one before it. Without a sketchbook or pre-planned compositions, I teeter on the delicate balance between steering outcomes and being pleasantly surprised by organic shapes emerging "by accident," grabbing the spotlight in a piece. It's a thrilling, albeit sometimes nerve-wracking, experience. Regardless of the highs and lows, each piece ultimately finds its way and comes together in a harmonious composition.

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*Tinnitus is the perception of sound that does not have an external source, so other people cannot hear it. These sounds can include ringing, buzzing, hissing, or whistling. The causes of tinnitus are unclear, but most people who have it have some degree of hearing loss. Tinnitus often affects the mood and ability to sleep or concentrate. In severe cases, tinnitus can lead to anxiety or depression. Currently, there is no cure for tinnitus, but there are ways to reduce symptoms.

**Hyperacusis is a type of reduced tolerance to sound. People with hyperacusis often find ordinary noises too loud, while loud noises can cause discomfort and pain.

Common approaches for both conditions include the use of sound therapy devices, such as hearing aids that produce white noise to mask sound. Additionally, cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT) are employed to alter the perception of hyperacusis and reduce anxiety. Medications may also be prescribed as part of the treatment plan. It's essential to consult with your doctor to determine the most suitable approach for your specific situation.