AI : Embracing the Future

From the first moment I heard about AI (Artificial Intelligence), the simulation of human intelligence in machines, enabling them to learn from experiences, perform tasks, and make decisions, I was fascinated. It seemed like something out of a science fiction movie, a concept I thought would forever remain in the realm of imagination. Fast forward to today, AI is an integral tool in my daily life, especially through ChatGPT. It's akin to the nostalgic days of Microsoft Messenger, only now I'm conversing with an entity as intelligent, if not smarter, than Einstein. ChatGPT possesses a vast knowledge base and can learn about virtually any topic I encourage it to explore.

Recently, I watched a podcast (Diary of a CEO E101) featuring Mod Gadwat, the former CEO of Google X (Artificial Intelligence). He shared his reason for leaving the field, expressing concern not about the intelligence of the machines themselves, but about how humans might wield this power. Our species' arrogance, he pointed out, could lead to unpredictable consequences. It's staggering to think that by 2049, AI could surpass human intelligence by a billion-fold, raising ethical questions about our relationship with this technology.

Today, AI can create original images in mere seconds, blend a myriad of colors, construct intricate 3D environments, and retouch photos flawlessly. While its capabilities are awe-inspiring, there's a concern that it might render certain skills obsolete while making others indispensable. This rapidly evolving technology is seamlessly integrated into the websites, apps, and search engines we use daily.

Personally, I utilize AI to delve deep into subjects, obtain knowledge, and proofread texts, such as the blog you are currently reading. AI-generated content continues to become more natural, blurring the lines between human and machine creation. The distinction may become indistinguishable in the future. Hence, it is imperative to learn how to harness this tool effectively and be prepared for the changes it brings. AI learns from us, so if we instill it with positive values, it can contribute positively. As Asdrubal Colmenarez wisely advised me during my first art internship, let's emulate the good things, not the bad ones.

In embracing AI, we embark on a journey that challenges us to explore the boundaries of creativity and ethics. Let's approach this future with curiosity, responsibility, and a commitment to using AI for the betterment of humanity and the arts.

The Cook

“The Cook" is a portrait of one of the fascinating figures I encountered in the street markets of Chiang Mai, Thailand. The work is part of my series "Conscious Sleepers” in which I explore the essence of urban life.

This piece was completed during my SAC Artist Residency in Thailand in 2023. I used silk instead of canvas or paper because it’s a material which holds deep symbolic and cultural significance in Thailand. Silk is elegant and delicate, making it a stark contrast to the often rough and hard reality of a cook's life. This fabric, representing luxury and beauty, serves as a metaphor for the dreams of the cook who works tirelessly in the market.

The black paint resembles ink used in traditional calligraphy and painting, art forms that express the essence and spirit of the subject. My work purposefully lacks proportion and rigid structure. There was no previous sketch, making the outcome unpredictable until the work was completed.

I wish to present the world as it is, with all its contrasts…a world with more transparency.

The Cook, Acrylic on Silk, Thailand 2023

Road to Trinity

Bored at the Gallery, Acrylic on Fabriano paper, 200 x 150 cm, 2023 . Istanbul, Türkiye (Turkey)

My artistic journey encountered an intriguing muse - sleepers. Back in my student days, it acted as the perfect shield, allowing me to sketch unnoticed, lest my intense gaze invited undue attention. A simple glance had the power to shift the atmosphere, making people uneasy. It dawned on me that when sleepers stirred, their body language transformed, and the connection I sought to capture altered. It was then that I realized, in slumber, we are truly ourselves.

My path took a scenic route during my MA at Goldsmiths, involving a daily pilgrimage from Wimbledon to the heart of East London. The long commute birthed newfound inspiration on a grand canvas. Sleepers evolved into a series, adapting materials as the seasons of life dictated. The conscious sleepers of Caracas witnessed my artistic metamorphosis, drawing inspiration from global imagery.

Turkey became my muse for the Colossus series, reigniting my passion for large-scale drawings. There's a certain magic in creating monumental art, where the interplay between space and audience becomes enchanting. The emotions evoked are unparalleled, especially when the characters are drawn from real-life experiences.

"The Cook" emerged during my SAC artist residency in Chiang Mai, sparking an exploration of 'inside out.' Sunlight streaming into my studio, framed by windows, fueled my creative energy. After a transformative 6-day meditation retreat at U Mong Temple, conveniently situated across the street, I felt compelled to paint on the studio's windows.

As with my drawings, the windows offered a unique perspective. They dissolved the notion of front and back, enabling me to create on a translucent canvas. Silk, my chosen medium, revolutionized my approach. No longer constrained by the need for erasures, it embraced mistakes as part of the journey. It offered transparency and portability, becoming a versatile companion in my artistic voyage.

Tomorrow, my dear friends in London will have the privilege of witnessing my creation, "The Cook," shortlisted for the prestigious Trinity Buoy Wharf Drawing Prize. It's a culmination of my artistic odyssey in Thailand, a testament to the ever-evolving nature of my craft.

Join Trinity Buoy Wharf Drawing Prize 2023 Exhibition:

  • Address: Trinity Buoy Wharf, 64 Orchard Place, London, E14 0JY, United Kingdom

  • Exhibition Dates: September 29 to October 15, 2023

Experience the enchantment where artistry meets revelation.

Title: "Colossus Series: A Journey from Conscious Sleepers to Istanbul's Diversity"




In the world of art, inspiration often emerges from the most unexpected places. The Colossus series, a continuation of the Conscious Sleepers series, is a testament to this notion. As an artist and teacher, I found myself drawn to the concept behind Conscious Sleepers: the idea that when we are asleep, we don't pretend to be anyone else. However, this time, the inspiration took root in the vibrant and diverse streets of Istanbul.

Istanbul, a city that straddles two continents, is a melting pot of cultures, histories, and traditions. It's a place where the East meets the West, where centuries-old architecture blends seamlessly with modern skyscrapers, and where the aroma of spices mingles with the scent of the Bosphorus. It's a city where the concept of Conscious Sleepers seemed to come to life in the most unexpected ways.

As I roamed the bustling streets and navigated the city's iconic subway system, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by the kaleidoscope of cultures that surrounded me. Istanbul's streets were a living canvas, each person I encountered a unique stroke of paint, and every moment a snapshot of life in this extraordinary city.

What struck me the most was the incredible selection of flavors, colors, and ethnicities that I encountered on this journey. From savoring a traditional Turkish breakfast overlooking the Bosphorus to indulging in the rich tapestry of street food, Istanbul's culinary scene was a sensory feast. The vibrant colors of the Grand Bazaar and the unique hues of the spices and textiles were a visual delight. But it was the people, with their diverse backgrounds and stories, who truly brought this city to life.

In my art, I sought to capture the essence of Istanbul's cultural mosaic. The drawings in the Colossus series were brought to life using acrylic and charcoal on Fabriano paper, allowing me to create nine distinctive works, each measuring an impressive 200 x 150 cm. These pieces aim to convey the spirit of Istanbul, the beauty of its diversity, and the moments of authenticity that can be found when we let go of pretense, much like the state of conscious sleep.

As an artist teacher, my journey from Conscious Sleepers to the Colossus series is a testament to the power of observation, cultural exploration, and the transformative nature of art. Istanbul, with its rich tapestry of life and culture, has become not just a source of inspiration but a canvas upon which I've painted my own story.

In conclusion, the Colossus series is a visual diary of my time in Istanbul, a celebration of diversity, and a reminder that art has the incredible ability to capture the essence of a place and its people. Through this series, I hope to share my experience, tell my story, and inspire others to see the beauty in the world around them, just as I have in the vibrant streets of Istanbul.

My Artistic Journey in Chiang Mai Unveiled

Hello! I'm absolutely thrilled to share the exciting news that I recently had the incredible opportunity to be the Artist-in-Residence of SAC Gallery in Thailand, specifically in Chiang Mai. This three-month program was a dream come true, especially after facing numerous delays and travel restrictions due to the pandemic. In fact, I was fortunate to be the first artist to join this program since 2020.

During my residency, I had the privilege of working in an amazing studio space, surrounded by a supportive and knowledgeable team. What made this experience even more special was being nestled in nature, just 15 minutes away from the vibrant old town and city center, with its bustling markets, diverse restaurants, stunning temples, and a wonderful community of both locals and expats, not to mention the constant flow of tourists!

I, @jesusisanartist, had the honor of being the first artist in the 2023 program. Hailing from the vibrant city of Caracas, Venezuela, my artistic work delves into the intricate connections between art and society. After a long hiatus, I embarked on this transformative journey through SAC Residency, which took place from April to June.

Upon my arrival in Chiang Mai, my first destination was the "U-Mong Temple," conveniently located just opposite my studio. To connect with the local area, the gallery and I organized a "Mindfulness Practice" inspired by my fascination with the concept of "Conscious Sleepers." This practice led me to create captivating artwork on the glass panels in my studio, serving as a poignant reminder of my initial weeks in Chiang Mai. This series draws inspiration from the notion that when we are asleep, we don't pretend to be anyone else.

The artwork concept that emerged in the U-Mong Park Studio is a continuation of my previous series, "Conscious Sleepers." My time in Chiang Mai allowed me to explore themes of "rebirth" or "metamorphosis" of the image, the cycle of life, and how a traditional medium can feel refreshingly new. The culmination of my observations of the people and places in Chiang Mai resulted in a captivating series of artworks titled "Conscious Sleepers: Inside Out Chiang Mai."

Due to my strong attachment to this space, the gallery and I organized a Studio Visit event at U-Mong Park Studio in Chiang Mai, opening my workspace to exchange conversations, skills, experiences, and the pure joy of art with enthusiasts on June 21, 2023.

Our studio was ready to welcome art enthusiasts alike. Furthermore, SAC Residency continues to be a hub for artists and creators seeking not only a space to create art but also an active engagement with the local community and surroundings.

I'm immensely grateful for the extraordinary opportunity I had to paint a mural inside one of the chapels at Wat Umong, a 700-year-old Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This place holds deep personal significance to me, as I previously embarked on a transformative six-day meditation retreat there. It was incredibly serendipitous that my artist residency studio, provided by @sac.gallery.bangkok, was situated right in front of this venerable temple.

As a foreigner, I was particularly interested in exploring the diverse perspectives this opportunity had to offer, including our perceptions of enlightenment. Through my mural, I aimed to represent the four seasons: spring, summer, and autumn on the exterior walls, and winter on the chapel wall. I wanted to convey that death or the end of a cycle is not something negative but an integral part of life. My mural featured the lotus flower, symbolizing purity emerging from murky waters, along with a stunning view of Chiang Mai from my window. Throughout my time in Thailand, I relished the contrasts, from sleeping on a thin cushion in a modest room to luxuriating in a spacious room with a bed as large as the retreat's dormitory.

This experience taught me invaluable life lessons, and I sincerely hope you find as much joy in viewing my mural as I did in creating it. I'm deeply grateful for your unwavering support and love!

Photos by Pang Sakuntala - SAC Gallery

Solemos aprender a pedir, pero a menudo olvidamos dar las gracias

Hoy, mientras me encuentro a más de 17,480 kilómetros de mi ciudad natal, de mi tierra, siento la necesidad profunda de expresar mi gratitud a todas las personas que han sido fundamentales en mi viaje como artista visual. Se dice que los triunfos son el resultado de pequeños progresos, o como solía decirme mi padre cuando era niño, la constancia y la perseverancia son sinónimos de triunfo.

Caracas - Phu Quoc

En primer lugar, quiero agradecer a mi familia. Han sido un faro de apoyo y amor inquebrantable desde el comienzo. Sin su aliento y respaldo, este majestuoso viaje lleno de aventuras no sería posible. A todos y cada uno de ustedes, gracias por ser mi roca y mi inspiración.

A mis amigos, quienes se han convertido en una red de apoyo incondicional en todo el mundo, no tengo palabras suficientes para expresar mi gratitud. Sus ánimos, consejos y el sentido de comunidad que compartimos han sido invaluables.

Además, estoy emocionado de compartir que he sido seleccionado como finalista para el Trinity Buoy Wharf Drawing Prize. Esta noticia me llena de orgullo y humildad, y es un testimonio del trabajo arduo y la pasión que he invertido en mi arte. El resultado se anunciará a fin de mes, y este logro sería inconcebible sin su apoyo constante.

Finalmente, quiero agradecer a los coleccionistas que han creído en mi trabajo y han permitido que viva de lo que amo. Su apoyo no solo ha sido un impulso financiero, sino también una validación de mi pasión y esfuerzo.

Gracias nuevamente por ser parte de este emocionante viaje.

Con gratitud,

Jesús Briceño Reyes

We often learn how to ask, but we often forget to say thank you!

Today, as I find myself over 17,500 kilometers from my hometown, from my roots, I feel the deep need to express my gratitude to all the individuals who have been pivotal in my journey as a visual artisIt's said that triumphs are the culmination of small steps, or as my father used to tell me when I was a child, constancy and perseverance are synonymous with triumph.

First and foremost, I want to thank my family. They have been an unwavering beacon of support and love from the very beginning. Without their encouragement and backing, this majestic journey filled with adventures would not have been possible. To each and every one of you, thank you for being my rock and my inspiration.

To my friends, who have become an unconditional support network around the world, I cannot find words sufficient to express my gratitude. Your encouragement, advice, and the sense of community we share have been invaluable.

Additionally, I'm thrilled to share that I have been selected as a finalist for the Trinity Buoy Wharf Drawing Prize. This news fills me with pride and humility and stands as a testament to the hard work and passion I have poured into my art. The result will be announced at the end of the month, and this achievement would have been inconceivable without your steadfast support.

Finally, I want to express my gratitude to the collectors who have believed in my work and allowed me to make a living from what I love. Your support has not only been a financial boost but also a validation of my passion and effort.

Thank you once again for being part of this thrilling journey. With gratitude,

Jesús Briceño Reyes

11:20


De Chucho a Kuhn Cho

He vuelto a Asia después de 10 años, y la sensación de familiaridad y diferencia me abraza. Tras un tercer viaje a Turquía (sobre el cual hablaré en otro post), puse rumbo a Bangkok, Tailandia, para encontrarme con el equipo de La Galería SAC, responsables de la residencia artística de tres meses para la cual fui seleccionado. Bangkok es una ciudad vibrante, con una cultura fascinante y contrastes cautivadores.

Lo curioso de Chiang Mai, la ciudad donde pasé mi residencia, es que mi estudio estaba literalmente frente al templo de Wat Umong, uno de los más destacados en la ciudad. Chiang Mai, que en tiempos fue la antigua capital de Tailandia, hoy es conocida como la "Ciudad de los Templos", con un total de 300.

Mi curiosidad por realizar un retiro de meditación me llevó a una grata sorpresa: mis amigas administradoras me informaron que justo al cruzar la calle se encontraba un templo. Me imaginaba una estructura pequeña, ya que tras esas paredes deterioradas no se veía mucho. La sorpresa llegó al descubrir un complejo con una impresionante pagoda, dos serenos lagos e incluso un centro de meditación Vipassana. Pedí información sobre el retiro y me explicaron que tenía un costo de 250 bahts (unos 8 dólares al día), que incluía comida, una habitación con colchoneta e instrucciones iniciales de meditación.

No fue sino hasta ese momento que me di cuenta de cuán arraigada estaba mi educación católica. Tras las instrucciones iniciales, nos indicaron que no debíamos hablar (para conservar energía y concentración), que evitáramos el uso de dispositivos electrónicos, fragancias intensas y que no comiéramos alimentos sólidos después del mediodía. Durante años, había lidiado con complejos relacionados con mi apariencia física, por lo que me resultó inusual estar en un programa que promovía comer menos y evitar la gula.

El silencio resultó desafiante, ya que muchos no ofrecían explicaciones, pero tuve la suerte de encontrarme con dos ingleses que me brindaron consejos esenciales. Uno de ellos, Greg, era casi un "rebelde" con años de experiencia en la meditación.

Me advirtieron que los monjes nos enseñarían lo básico sobre la respiración, la postura (llamada "udo") y la meditación caminando.

Pasé tres días en silencio, sin comunicarme con mi familia y con el teléfono apagado. Fue entonces cuando me di cuenta de cuán dependiente era de mi teléfono. Al solicitar al monje permiso para usarlo, simplemente sonrió, como si dijera: "Joven ingenuo, aquí puedes hacer lo que quieras y seguir lo que dicta tu corazón. No estamos aquí para juzgarte". Su mirada expresaba: "No tengas expectativas para evitar decepciones; vive el presente". Solo preguntó: "¿Quieres la clave del Wi-Fi?". Decliné, ya que tenía mi tarjeta SIM, y mi teléfono estaba en mi habitación.

Al final, decidí quedarme seis días, y debo decir que empecé a ver muchas cosas de manera diferente, especialmente cómo percibía el mundo y su gente. Me sorprendía enormemente disfrutar del desayuno 😅.

Para romper con estos contrastes, ya había planeado regresar a mi habitación. Las diferencias eran notables; decir que solo la cama en mi residencia en Umong Park era más grande que la habitación en el templo me hizo reflexionar sobre cuán agradecidos debemos ser por las cosas que tenemos en la vida, las cuales a veces pasamos por alto.

Al día siguiente, después de regresar, asistí al festival de Songkran, el Año Nuevo tailandés. Lo que comenzó como una batalla de agua, simbolizando la purificación de las malas vibras, se convirtió en un espectáculo sorprendente que ha sido replicado en países vecinos. Esto inspiró una serie de trabajos. El impacto fue tan profundo que decidí no consumir alcohol durante el día y, en su lugar, documentar tantas experiencias como pude.

Tailandia resultó ser una revelación para mi trabajo. Hasta ahora, he visitado cinco países del sudeste asiático, por lo que planeo dedicar un post a cada uno para una exploración más detallada.

Finalmente, el título de este post hace referencia a "Chucho", un apodo común para quienes se llaman Jesús. En Tailandia, adopté el nombre oriental de "Kuhn Cho". Existe una tradición en la que los occidentales adoptan nombres orientales para facilitar su pronunciación y viceversa. El mío es "Kuhn" (Sr.) Cho (suerte).

¡Gracias por leer!

Kuhn Cho

Una mirada desde la Bienal de Venecia

 

 

Desde mi primera visita al Pabellón de Venezuela en Giardini, en los prestigiosos jardines de la bienal, quedé impresionado por su presencia majestuosa, con la bandera de Venezuela ondeando en alto. A diferencia de muchas naciones que ni siquiera poseen un pabellón propio y deben alquilar espacios fuera del centro de la exposición...

A lo largo de los años, Venezuela ha experimentado cambios notables. Hace más de quince años, el maestro Asdrúbal Colmenares me señaló que "la economía refleja el estado artístico del país", y esta afirmación sigue siendo más relevante que nunca.

Sin duda, esto se ha reflejado en los movimientos artísticos globales, como el impresionismo y el cubismo en París, el expresionismo abstracto y el auge del Pop Art en Nueva York, así como el ascenso de los YBA (Jóvenes Artistas Británicos) en Londres, entre otros.

 

 

El Pabellón de Venezuela es una joya arquitectónica diseñada por el renombrado arquitecto Gio Ponti. Se encuentra a escasos 50 metros de la entrada principal, donde la semana pasada vi a más de 150 personas ansiosas por ingresar a una bienal que ya había comenzado varias semanas atrás.

Lamentablemente, debo señalar que el Pabellón venezolano ha estado en deterioro durante varios años, y las representaciones de este año me han parecido desalentadoras. Pasar de sentir el orgullo al ver tu bandera a enfrentar la triste realidad es una experiencia impactante.

Queridos lectores, para poner esto en contexto, el Pabellón de Venezuela se concibió en una Venezuela llena de potencial, justo entre los pabellones de Suiza y la Antigua Unión Soviética (hoy Rusia), que, por razones obvias, permanece cerrado.

La Bienal de Arte es el equivalente a las Olimpiadas en el mundo del arte y se celebra cada dos años. Presenta a los máximos exponentes de cada nación. Por primera vez en la historia, se eligió a una mujer como curadora, y dos mujeres afroamericanas (Estados Unidos y Reino Unido) ganaron la bienal.

El Pabellón de Estados Unidos, titulado "Soberanía" de la artista Simone Leigh, se encuentra a pocos metros del Pabellón de Venezuela y presenta una declaración artística muy impactante, explorando la "Estética Relacional".

Otro espacio que me dejó asombrado fue el Pabellón de Dinamarca, justo frente al de Venezuela. Aunque su arquitectura exterior puede parecer simple, como una caja de fósforos, la exhibición en su interior es tan impresionante que mis ojos no podían apartarse de ella ni para tomar una fotografía con el teléfono.

Hoy en día, en un mundo hiperconectado, la información se propaga a la velocidad de la luz. Antes de llegar a Venecia, algunos colegas ya me habían compartido videos del Pabellón de Venezuela. Lamentablemente, la muestra me pareció tan decepcionante que dudé en entrar cuando llegué a Giardini. En un evento que equivale a las Olimpiadas del arte y con la oportunidad de conocer a maestras y representantes excepcionales del arte venezolano en persona, es desalentador que la muestra sea mediocre, simple y predecible incluso en su museografía.

Los dejo con una pieza que realicé en la entrada del Pabellón de Venezuela, mi expresión ante un espacio que provoca que uno cronometre su visita debido a la rápida salida de la gente.