Carmen Solis is an artist in the California Central Valley (damn, Fresno’s been getting a lot of love on the blog as of late!). When I went back a year or so ago, I saw one of her pieces up in a studio, and was super impressed– it was one of her black and white drawings of a girl with an animal head. Immediately my mind went into feminist theory-land…I couldn’t get my mind off from the piece. 12 months later, Carmen answered some questions for the blog about her work.
Carmen will also be giving away one of her art-printed tote bags. Isn’t she nice? Look for the details on how to enter below!
You are from the Central Valley, and still show there frequently. How does that location influence your work? You’re also a traveler– how do other places and cultures compare to the Central Valley and play into your pieces?
I believe both play important roles in my work. For instance, my current photography was influenced by the Central Valley. On my drive throughout the south valley I would see crosses left behind by families who had lost someone in a car accident. It had such an impact on me it eventually became the photo series, “Morbidly Beautiful.” My travels have influenced by exposure, wherever I go I make sure to see either museums or ruins. These distinct bring different elements. From my paintings of Aztec subjects to the high fashioned crows these have all been connected somehow by the exposure of my travels.
Fashion has always seemed to be important to you (for as long as I’ve known you, when we went to college together!). I love that you still totally embrace the fact that you were a “Gwenabee” way back in high school. Who are your current fashion muses and why? Do you see any difference between art and fashion? Or, what are the similarities that you are drawn to?
In the past I looked at magazines and the entertainment industry (music and movies) for fashion inspiration, but now I find my fashion muses to be found in the internet. Sites such as Lookbook and Pinterest have revolutionized my sense of style. I find my style to be very eclectic; ranging from vintage to boho chic…it all depends on my mood and day. I believe fashion and art have their share of similarities and differences but what I am most drawn to is how they influence one another. Take for instance Yves S. Laurent famous 1965 Fall dress was inspired by Mondrian color block paintings.
Rita
February 12, 2013
Love that mural!
Kim Burly
February 12, 2013
“I believe fashion and art have their share of similarities and differences but what I am most drawn to is how they influence one another.”
Word.
Awesome work, I always love to see the great art and artists that come out of the central valley!
Candace W.
February 12, 2013
I have been daydreaming about California lately and this is a big reason why; I love the art! The local art here (Alaska) is very heavy, dark, and cold…. and it just doesn’t feel like home. Cali has a swath of rad female artists with great style, annnnnd well, that is why I’m here, on this blog. Thanks for sharing.. Imma go check out more of her work. Kickass.
-C
Lisa Flores
February 12, 2013
I could definitely see your stuff at forever 21. Really great set and great talent as well keep up the good work!
Aurora
February 12, 2013
I bought one of the original prints form Carmen’s bird series. I fell in love with it at her show. It is now the center focus in my living room, it is freakin awesome!!!!
Melissa
February 18, 2013
Love this so much. I miss calling California my home, but your blog makes me feel like it’s still right down the street. Thanks for always sharing such amazing stuff, Aurora! <3 xo
Aurora Lady
February 20, 2013
Melissa,
Congrats, you are our winner! Email your mailing address to alady@auroralady.com and we’ll send your tote bag out to you! xo
Tanya
February 18, 2013
Love those ‘Bird Girls’ – totally want a t-shirt!