In the world of contemporary art, the marriage of traditional techniques and cutting-edge creativity has given rise to artists who not only capture our attention but also challenge our perceptions. Caio Locke, a celebrated artist represented by Eclectic Gallery, is one such visionary who seamlessly blends artistry with intricacy, inviting viewers into a world where imagination knows no bounds. See his interview below.
Can you share a pivotal moment from your past that solidified your commitment to a career in art?
Losing track of time and cycling alone in the night-time forest around Angkor, past the silhouettes of temples entwined with fig tree roots, to the cries of howler monkeys. Returning to the lights of the town, from empty dirt tracks to small lamplit roads, I vividly recall hitting the arterial road full of bicycles, mopeds, cars and buses. The feeling of crossing from an ancestral moonlit city taken over by nature into the bustling energy stream of man has never left me. This metaphysical experience helped shape my art, and conceptually instilled a wish to reconnect the geometric mind-mapping of urban spaces to nature and the cosmos.
Your work often showcases intricate details. Could you explain the techniques or tools you use to achieve this level of intricacy?
I work in oils or acrylics, often starting with loose formations before meticulously crafting intricate elements that breathe life into my canvases. To achieve this level of intricacy, I employ flow agents, glazes, exact measurements, traditional and organic perspective lines, and fine brushes.
How has your style evolved over time, and what factors contributed to this evolution?
I have increasingly incorporated flowing perspective lines into the more rigid urban geometry. This has given rise to a new more sweeping and emotionally expressive phase. I am in the process of harmonizing these twin approaches to reflect my inner state and outer perception.
Can you share a specific artwork that holds deep personal significance to you and explain the story behind it?
‘Metropolis Rio’ conveys not only an atemporal interpretation of the city but also my own perspective of that time. I tried to convey my entire philosophy and sense of wonder in one painting, introducing the carnival motif as a procession that transcends time, passing by scenes in which lives are lived between a spiraling beginning and ending. It is a dream-conjured version of a city and civilization that floats above the actuality, presided over by the Fates, where the foreground resembles an afterworld.
Can you recall a particularly memorable moment or experience related to your art career that had a significant impact on you?
Exhibiting at the Brazilian Embassy in 2018 with a major solo show gave me the opportunity to look back across my work and to conjoin my life in London with my memories and experiences from Rio.
Many of your works seem to explore futuristic architectures. Could you elaborate on your fascination with this theme?
Many depictions of the future are dystopian. My process increasingly precludes this kind of exploration, not through wilfulness but because it no longer engages me psychologically or visually. The future is open and painting as an inherently optimistic activity suits itself to, and is a safe space for, utopian projections.
Have you ever collaborated with other artists or professionals from different disciplines? How has collaboration impacted your artistic practice?
I have collaborated with 3D makers, both on the design and painting side, which is an exciting branch of what I do and would like to explore further. It helped me think not only of creating illusory space within a flat surface but also within shapes.
What are some of the challenges you face when translating your artistic vision into a physical artwork?
There can be protracted phases of detail work where I lose sight of the bigger picture, before the final image that was a flicker in the mind’s eye comes into view. At the outset, my process was filled with doubt. With every painting, I have more confidence that I will reach this point.
How do you handle creative blocks or challenges during the artistic process?
I go running, then revisit the problem with fresh eyes.
Can you provide insights into your upcoming projects or any themes you're eager to explore in your upcoming works?
I would like to expand on the sweeping quality of more recent work to create pieces that reflect microcosm and macrocosm, the infinitesimal and epic, complexity and grandeur. I look forward to sharing these at forthcoming exhibitions with Eclectic Gallery.
It's been a pleasure diving into your creative world. To end on a high note, could you share a glimpse into what brings you joy outside of your artistic pursuits?
I love the time I spend with my family and friends. I like getting into nature, cycling, swimming and water sports, sometimes playing chess, writing short stories and whenever I can, exploring new cities.
Caio Locke's art is a testament to the marriage of tradition and innovation. To explore his captivating artworks and immerse yourself in the intricate details and imaginative landscapes, visit our website or meet us in person at 16 Newman Street, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1PB, UK. For inquiries and further information, don't hesitate to contact us at info@eclecticgallery.co.uk.
Septiembre 18, 2023
