Education:
2000-2005: Florida International University (Miami, Florida) Master of Architecture Degree
1993-1994: National School of Fine Arts of Paris (Paris, France) Post-graduate in Painting Techniques
1989–1993: New World School of the Arts (Miami, Florida) Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Degree
1988–1989: Miami Dade College (Miami, Florida) Associate Degree in Arts/Art Education
1997–1999: Miami Dade College (Miami, Florida) Associate Degree in Science/Film Production and Direction.
Artist Statement
I create monumental art, designed to engage and complement with its environment, transforming natural and urban spaces into memorable, iconic places. My work combines a passion for large-scale sculptural form with an architect’s understanding of form, space and structure, resulting in heavy, architectural pieces that invite public interaction, and that can be either site-specific or independent unique additions.
Artistic Philosophy & Process
Site Specificity and Vision
My fundamental belief is that art has the power to transform an environment and make it more human and engaging. I am trained to create expressions that are in dialogue with existing creative forces—whether man-made structures or the natural landscape. I collaborate with architects, artists, and creative teams to ensure the artwork not only integrates seamlessly but also enhances the unique identity and public engagement of the space.
Form and Material
My large-scale work is inherently architectural in its design and engineering, often fabricated using durable materials such as steel and aluminum. The pieces are conceived as massive, heavy sculptures, many of which allow for activities or interaction within their structures, blurring the line between architecture and pure fine art. The primary intent, however, remains the creation of a powerful work of art.
Themes and Content
The concepts behind my sculptures are deeply rooted in investigations of human issues, including education, peace, war, progress, and freedom. This investigative nature drives the content of the work, providing a compelling narrative beneath the monumental physical form.
John’s work is part of many collections including: Metro Zoo Miami, The South Florida Museum of Hispanic and Latin American Art, Miami, City of Coral Gables Art in Public Places, Zubi Advertising, Coral Gables, Florida, The New World School of the Arts, Miami, St Thomas University, Miami, Miami Dade College, Miami, Florida International University, Miami, Matin Aviation, Miami, The Vanidades International Publishing Group. Miami, Turbana Corporation, Miami, Univision Radio, Miami, Martin Aviation Group, Miami, The Bravo Group, NY, Patronato Colombiano de Artes y Ciencias, Bogota, Colombia, Fundacion Universitaria Juan N. Corpas, Bogota, Colombia, and other public and private collections around the world.
