LEAP is in Austin for the Texas Book Festival this weekend, but if you know us well, you know that we did plenty of exploring of the state’s capital as well. The conversations and experiences we shared deviated from some of our typical topics, but was a completely rewarding and thought-provoking way to spend our Saturday!
A Visit to Daniel Arredondo’s Art Studio
by Michelle Cardenas
Rewarding is certainly the appropriate work for the art of Daniel Arredondo, a renowned artist and friend of LEAP. Mr. Arredondo was kind enough to give us a tour of his studio and walk us through his creative process.
The journey to the studio was a little rocky, but we were soon blown away with the serene views surrounding his property. We were warmly greeted and welcomed in by Mr. Arredondo himself.
Walking into Mr. Arredondo’s studio was beyond incredible, and it felt as though we were transported to a new world. We were met by his extensive collection of cigar boxes decorated with his art and impeccable craftsmanship.
Daniel Arredondo is known for his paintings of landscapes that focus on trees and the stories they tell. He uses the trees as a metaphor to tell the story of life and emit some of the emotions in the human experience. He explained to us that just like our individual experience, each tree is unique. As an artist, his central focus is to go beyond the surface, which is pronounced in the inclusion of the tree’s roots in each painting.
To our amazement, Daniel Arredondo does not arrange the composition of his paintings before he starts. Everything that he wishes to express comes out in real time, even using the canvas as a palette to mix the colors. In response to our astonishment, he read us a quote from Mark Rothko: “A painting is not a picture of an experience, it is an experience”. While we were already incredibly grateful to have just witnessed his many pieces, Mr. Arredondo very generously gave us 6 prints of some of his favorite works, along with an original small-scale painting as a keepsake, and many of us also made a purchase!
Personally, this was the first piece in my art collection, unlike Jessica, who after today’s trip now has a total of 12 Arredondo pieces!
We were humbled by his generosity, hospitality, and willingness to share his perspective and his artistic process. We had a wonderful time and left with beautiful mementos that we will cherish as young art collectors!
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 