Today we’d like to introduce you to Armando Ivan Chacon.
Hi Armando Ivan, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
This is the second time I am getting interviewed by your magazine. What an honor!! I have been very busy since last time. Let me give you a recap; I am painter originally from Guatemala City, Guatemala. My artistic career began at a very young age with artistic success. Also, as an immigrant to this country there have been challenges and obstacles; however, always found that these bumps in the road are a source of inspiration. In one way or another, my artistic practice has always evolved and grown from those experiences.
Coming to America as a young man had helped me development and discovery my own identity. With exhibitions in Florida and Georgia, I have stablished a good artistic practice. Now here in Atlanta, Georgia I have solidified my artist career and persona. The process has not been easy but very rewarding. But when your work gets recognized and patrons purchased unique works of art, you become aware of you impact in society. Currently, I have several shows around town, for example, three paintings are in the Coca-Cola Headquarters building for the Latin Heritage Month October 2022. Also, just completed a series of painting in Piedmont Park where all pieces sold out, thanks to a Plein Air group I belong (Virginia Highland Plein Air Painters) plus, events where I do live paintings.
As a multifaceted artist were in a regular week, I began my process of creativity in my studio. My studio at home allows me to warm up and create unique images of my experiences. Once this process is accomplished; usually takes a couple of days. Immediately after that, I start to focus on getting outside and do some Plein Air Painting. The outside painting experiences are what allows me and my palette to be so different and fresh. As many artists knows, nature never disappoints and allows me to ground myself in a deeper level. In addition, my creative process takes me to let go at least once a month to do abstract paintings. These pieces are full of energy and great emotional expression, allowing me to be free of limits.
As an artist, I have this calling to express myself in different ways, not bound by a style of …ism that society tries to keep us. I like to express myself freely and unbound in a world that is in constant change. It is true that as artists we are recognized by the style we paint and what we paint. However, I feel that there is more left out there when we don’t pursue that inner calling from our soul. At this moment in my career, I am creating works that speak to what is happening around me without filters.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Absolutely, I think that without obstacles our lives would not be as interesting. My personal struggle was that I did not commit sooner to my love of creating art. As an artist, self-doubt and not believing in yourself hinders commitment early on. However, once I was able to piece together the right chemistry needed to accomplish my goals the rest is history. I have learned to put my ego aside and just let life humble you to create with freedom of expression. Also, not to be afraid to try new things and travel as much as possible, are some of the experiences that defined you.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
In a few words, I can say that my artistic practice revolves around painting images from my soul. As I stated before I concentrate on expressing myself in three different ways: surrealistic, abstract and nature scenes.
I see myself as a surrealist since that was my first encounter as a young artist. These images are a mix of reality and fantasy with a spiritual principle. I am also known for painting blue spheres on my surrealist paintings, where these geometric shapes are identified as the Soul. These artworks speak to the deepest part of the subconscious, where one’s personal feelings and emotions are trigger. In the other side of the spectrum, I’m also known as a Plein-air artist. I capture what I see and compose interesting angles in a short period of time. Painting outside must be the most liberating and satisfying ways to absorb nature as a hole. Currently, I am participating in several plein air contest where my talent gets to be challenged.
In addition, I express myself with abstract paintings. The intensity and concentration to create these pieces almost becomes a physical and mental workout. The energy that these paintings give are full of energy and movement in every brushstroke. There is freedom in expressing yourself!!!
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I believe that mentors can be found when you commit to your craft and career. I would advice anyone trying to find a mentor, that write down their goals and people you admired. Every single one of us has an image of who we are and where we want to be. That picture in your mind can give you clues to who you want to approach and ask for advice. Mentors are all around us and they come in all shapes and sizes. One of my mentors had to be my father, he showed me to never give up not matter how hard the road to success was. Also, been around people that do not take away your energy is a good indication that you are in the right place. Another example of a good mentor is a person that supports you without asking nothing in return. When it comes to networking, a good and honest attitude is what separates the positive connections from the negative ones. Having respect and integrity for one self will attract the right people towards your future endeavors, allowing the pieces to connect effortlessly.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.armandochacon.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/armando_chacon_59/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/armandochaconart/
Image Credits
All images and artworks are Armando Chacon Fine Art pieces.
