Today we celebrate Cinco de Mayo, a yearly celebration held on May 5, which commemorates the anniversary of Mexico's victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza. The victory of a smaller, poorly equipped Mexican force against the larger and better-armed French army was a morale boost for the Mexicans.
In commemoration of this event, we honor and spotlight New River Fine Art artist Gustavo Torres, a Mexico born sculptor. Gustavo Torres began sculpting at a very young age in Mexico, training with accomplished artists.
Mainly influenced by Alberto Giacometti as well as the Nuns of Guadalajara, Torres is both a talented visual artist and a master craftsman, whose visual imagery reflects the quiet, deep spirit of an ancient culture. His experiences while attending a private Catholic school as a child had great impact on his early art education, and religious symbols were his subjects during these formative years. Torres' style is both primitive and abstract and he looks to create a ''spiritual balance'' in his art. He strives to elevate the human spirit by using primitive and natural forms reminiscent of Mayan and Spanish cultures. Each of his sculptures has the texture of antiquity, and the rough finger work and the carefully chosen patinas convey a worn, earthy presence. Torres believes that ''art without spirituality is nothing.'' This statement demonstrates his reverence for life and serves as a tribute to the depth of his feelings regarding the mysteries of creation.
His sculptures have been exhibited at the Carmel Arts Association and several prominent fine art galleries. He is a member of the Carmel Art Association and received a Gold Medal in national competition for a life-size bronze bust in Guadalajara. AWARDS AND ACCOLADES Gold medal, Salon de Octubre, Guadalajara, Mexico, 1987 Museum of Latin American Artists, Long Beach, CA - Permanent Collection Vanderbilt University - The Divinity School - Permanent Collection, among others.
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Images: Gustavo Torres | Celeste (30/10) | Bronze Sculpture | 19 x 3 in ; Gustavo Torres | Angel On Wheel (Lifesize) (Ed. of 25), 2013 | Bronze | 72 x 20 x 18 in