University: Visual Arts
Graduation Year: 2018
Monica Flores' artistic journey is a testament to her evolving passion for capturing the essence of nature. Her surname, Flores, intriguingly means "flowers" in Spanish, aligning perfectly with her current focus on painting flowers and nature. Initially exploring portraits and abstract compositions, Flores now uses acrylic and oil paints to convey her artistic vision. Influenced by masters like Monet and Sargent, she views flowers as living entities with unique personalities, akin to human portraits. Her work blends abstract and figurative art, celebrating nature's diversity and inspiring viewers to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.
My artistic journey has evolved through various phases, leading me to my current focus on painting flowers and nature. Initially, my work centered on portraits and later transitioned to abstract compositions, allowing me to explore different dimensions of artistic expression. Today, I primarily use acrylic and oil paints, which provide the versatility and depth needed to convey my artistic vision.
My influences are deeply rooted in the techniques and sensibilities of the old masters. Artists like Monet, John Singer Sargent, and Augusta Dohlmann have profoundly shaped my approach, as has the timeless beauty of ancient art, such as the murals found in the Villa of Livia. These works have taught me to appreciate the subtleties of light, color, and form, and to capture the essence of my subjects with authenticity and emotion.
I see flowers not merely as still life subjects, but as living entities with distinct personalities and stories to tell. Each bloom, with its unique characteristics, mirrors the individuality found in human portraits. Through my paintings, I strive to translate the atmosphere and messages that flowers convey to me, portraying them as more akin to animals than plants. My purpose is to draw inspiration from nature and create something fresh and innovative, blending elements of abstract and figurative art. By doing so, I aim to capture the true nature of my subjects and present them in a way that resonates with contemporary sensibilities while honoring the timeless beauty of the natural world.
My work is a celebration of nature's diversity and an exploration of the connections between all living things. Through my paintings, I hope to inspire viewers to see the world with fresh eyes and to appreciate the delicate balance and beauty that surrounds us.