Biografia
Juan G. Restrepo’s intricate acrylic paintings update traditional mysticism and artistic techniques by using a wholly current aesthetic. The artist’s recent works fall into two categories: his personal interpretations of the mandala, the ancient symbol for the universe found in Hindu and Buddhist art, and a series of spare yet powerful abstracts. In both genres, Restrepo keeps the fundamentals while updating the energy to something pulsing and raucous.
Restrepo employs vivid colors – some almost bordering on neon – in counterintuitive, exciting combinations. His brushwork echoes the emotional force of the Abstract Expressionists, and his unnatural, compelling palette is reminiscent of the confrontational works of the Neo-Dadaists. But Restrepo is unique in his spontaneity, his immediacy, and his emphasis on the line even in compositions that seem to contain no planes, only clouds of color. His compositions rely on the collision of hues with significant force and a constant sense of surprise. Restrepo has said one of his goals is to create “positive energy” from his works, turning his art historical references into a visual symbol for an entirely new audience.
Restrepo was born in Colombia. In addition to painting, he is an accomplished sculptor.
