Interview: Rossana Romero
How long have you been working with paper mache and why are you drawn to it as a medium?
I have been working with paper mache for about 2 years now on my own work. I became fascinated with the idea that I could make something big and would potentially be heavy if using any other material and I would still be able to install it on the wall without any issues.
My journey with this medium began during collaborative installations with other artists, where we utilized paper to create intricate designs or molds for prototypes. What drew me in initially was its remarkable versatility. Despite its lightweight nature, paper mache allowed us to craft sizable installations that could be easily mounted on walls without any logistical hurdles.
As I delved deeper into experimenting with the material, I started telling my family about my pieces and my uncle shared with me tips that he had learned growing up and also experimenting with materials like paper mache and found objects. I discovered its rich history and cultural significance in the Caribbean, Central and Latin America. This exploration opened my eyes to the depth of paper mache as an indigenous craft, existing long before my involvement. It's a process steeped in tradition and innovation, offering endless possibilities for artistic expression. My fascination with its history and potential for creativity continues to drive my exploration and experimentation in this timeless craft.
What is it about monsters that are appealing to you? What do they symbolize? Were you scared of monsters as a kid? Are you conquering or slaying monsters from the past?
Monsters have always held a special place in my artistic exploration, stemming from the complex interplay of fear, paranoia, and love that I grew up surrounded by. These emotions, I've come to realize, are deeply intertwined with systemic cycles, shaping our experiences and perceptions in profound ways.
In my work, I use what I affectionately call "monsters" as symbolic representations of these intricate emotional landscapes. They serve as tangible manifestations of the fears and anxieties that once haunted me, but also as vessels for exploring the transformative power of love and understanding.
While monsters may have been sources of fear in my past, I've learned to see them differently over time. They've become companions on my journey of healing and self-discovery, allowing me to confront and embrace the complexities of my own psyche. Rather than slaying or conquering them, I've chosen to engage with them in dialogue, nurturing a sense of empathy and compassion for the parts of myself that were once shrouded in darkness.
My monsters symbolize not only the shadows of my past but also the resilience and strength that come from facing them head-on. They're a reminder that within every fear lies the potential for growth and transformation, ultimately shaping the narrative of my own personal evolution.
How do you want viewers to experience monsters in your work?
In my work, I aim to immerse viewers in a multifaceted narrative experience, where motifs serve as signposts guiding them through the intricate tapestry of stories I weave. These motifs act as timestamps, anchoring the audience in the specific moments and realities I explore.
By strategically incorporating these recurring symbols, I invite viewers to not only navigate the narrative landscape but also to actively participate in unraveling its mysteries. Each motif acts as a gateway for observers to delve deeper into the layers of meaning and symbolism embedded within my art.
Ultimately, I hope that encountering these motifs sparks a sense of curiosity and discovery in viewers, prompting them to seek out connections and patterns that enrich their understanding of the broader narrative. It's a collaborative journey, where every motif encountered is a breadcrumb leading to new insights and revelations, inviting viewers to engage with my work on a deeper level.
Did working in the movie industry feed your interest in monsters and the grotesque?
This is definitely Rossana lore that I don’t really speak about, haha but I come from a background of working in special effects in the film industry where I got to learn and work under the best special effects artists and monster making artists in the industry, honing my skills in character creation and imbuing creatures with depth and realism.
While some may perceive my work as grotesque, I view it as an exploration of the intricacies of character design and storytelling. The experience of crafting monsters for the screen taught me to consider the nuances of each character's narrative, as well as the importance of grounding them in a tangible reality. This realism extends beyond mere aesthetics to encompass textures and details that evoke a visceral response in viewers.
My background in the movie industry has not only expanded my technical capabilities but also instilled in me a deeper appreciation for the complexities of storytelling and the power of visual expression. It's a journey that continues to inform and enrich my artistic endeavors, pushing me to explore the boundaries of creativity while staying rooted in the authenticity of the human experience.
What is the relationship between your paintings and paper maché? Do they inform each other? Is there any kind of dialogue between the two mediums?
The relationship between my paintings and paper maché sculptures is symbiotic, each informing and enriching the other in a dynamic dialogue of creativity. Particularly with my frames, I see them as more than just borders; they serve as gateways or portals into the myriad worlds and realities I explore in my art.
My sculptures act as vessels, introducing viewers to the motifs and characters that fill my paintings. These motifs serve as breadcrumbs, guiding observers through the narratives and themes embedded within my work. By strategically incorporating these recurring symbols, I invite viewers to actively participate in unraveling the stories I weave, providing context and foreshadowing through both visual cues and titles.
There's a fluid exchange of ideas and imagery between my paintings and sculptures, each contributing to the rich tapestry of storytelling that defines my artistic expression. Together, they form a harmonious whole, inviting viewers on a journey of exploration and discovery through the realms of imagination and symbolism.
What are you working on right now and what’s next?
Currently, I'm deeply immersed in the ongoing narratives that shape my artistic practice, delving deeper into the stories of revolution and colonization that have long captured my imagination. This process involves not only continuing existing storylines but also exploring new avenues for experimentation with materials and techniques.
While my work is meticulously planned, drawing from years of research and contemplation, there's always room for evolution and unexpected discoveries. I'm constantly pushing the boundaries of my creative expression, seeking to unearth new layers of meaning and relevance within the historical contexts that inspire me.
Looking ahead, I find myself on the cusp of a new chapter, where I'll be exploring different timelines of history while remaining anchored in the themes of love, fear, and paranoia that have shaped my personal journey. These themes resonate deeply with my experiences of migration and living in a surveillance state, fueling my commitment to creating art that sparks introspection and dialogue on these pressing societal issues.