We got a chance to pick the brain of this months featured artist Emannuel Rivas. His method of using acrylic to create surrealist works is intriguing. Get to know the artist and his process in our Q & A below + make sure to visit his site for more of his works. If you are in Atlanta on the 19TH of December, stop by Revery and meet the artist in person, RSVP here
Do you mind introducing yourself?
I am Emmanuel Rivas Aka "NomadicManny" and I'm an Artist!
Where are you originally from?
Well, I was born in Bronx New York, but I moved to Atlanta at a very young age. My parents moved our family all around Georgia, I went to 7 separate Elementary schools, and 4 Middle schools. I never really felt I was from anywhere, that's where "Nomadicmanny" came from. We were constantly moving.
How long have you been creating?
Since I was 7 years old, but I've continued painting since 2012.
How would you describe your style?
I have an unorthodox style of painting, I feel I paint like an oil painter might paint when approaching surrealism, but I try to switch it up as much as possible.
I love the skulls in your work, but I also noticed a lot of your work seems to include themes of the afterlife, could you tell us what the significance of these symbols in your work means?
A lot of my work is about things I'm accepting or going through. Most of the time it's just basic life concepts I put into a suitable narrative. Death *not to sounds weird* is intriguing to me ever since I was young. Things that are unknown to me and I have an interest in, I make art about it.
How has your work evolved over the years?
I feel like I've had a lot of the ideas, that I haven't worked on for some years. I wasn't executing these ideas, because I didn't feel secure in my ability to do so. I've grown more as an artist and had lots of practice. It took some time, but evolving is natural if you're constantly creating and learning.
What are some things you still want to accomplish with your art?
I want to collaborate with a major brand like bape or adidas, stuff like that.
What inspired you to start painting and what continues to motivate you to keep creating?
My 10th-grade art teacher Mrs. Boyer pushed me to paint, she used to tell me I had great ideas. What motivates me to keep painting and creating is the fact that I love it and wanna do it for a living. If I'm not working on art I feel like I'm not learning or progressing, It's a big habit now.
Where do you see your style evolving from here?
New mediums, more fashion, and sculptures.
Who or What are some of your inspirations?
Life, music, pain, pleasure, Dali, Disney, Frida, many more artist, early 2000s music videos, my friends and family.
What projects/shows are you working on?
I'm having another solo showcase in July possibly, we shall see.
Famous last words.
You are stronger than any restraint
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