John Rivas
John Rivas (b. 1997, Newark, NJ) is a figurative painter whose narrative is guided by the stories of his ancestors and loved ones. As a first generation American raised in Newark, New Jersey, Rivas’ artwork is enriched with tales of family members many of whom he’s met remotely or through photographs. He is concerned with the concepts of legacy, preserving the narratives of lost loved ones, and documenting his upbringing. Rivas’ paintings occupy space like sculpture, juxtaposing unexpected objects, many of which are sourced from his childhood, against one another. His brush strokes and rubs of charcoal are expressive marks that add to the visual collage. Each painting celebrates the Latinx concept of family and community through the lens of his Salvadoran roots.
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EL IPAD CIPOTE
What is EL IPAD CIPOTE?
This project was inspired by David Hockney’s IPad paintings. Those paintings are a result of Hockneys dedication to experimentation and pushing boundaries. Still depicting family and love ones I approach these digital works as if they were my paintings. Starting from scratch with a drawing then breaking down the image with different brushes/textures and even cut out of actual finished works like the beans and embroidery to collage which forms a new visual language. My paintings are meant to be seen in person as the photos do no justice. With these digital works I try to mimic the face to face experience through the screen, the details don’t get lost and the figures feel alive. Thank you to Todd and the GODA team for this opportunity to create a new extension to my practice.
El IPAD CIPOTE was the first GODA emerging artist airdrop. Holders of The GODA Mint Pass received one of 10 editions.