My work is a homage to nature, a blend of landscape abstraction and spiritual exploration, encapsulating the dichotomy between "Matter" in the physical realm and "Light” in the quest for the ethereal and sacred. My work delves into the intricacies of topography and natural forces, viewing them as living energies in constant motion, shaped by the passage of time.
From the monumental presence of mountains to the subtle erosion of rocks, I am fascinated by the transformative power of the landscape. I perceive matter as the condensed form of light, witnessing its perpetual process of evolution and expansion across epochs.
My creative journey seeks to capture the sublime essence of the landscape and transforming it into a spiritual experience. The "Portals Series" represents the synthesis of this ongoing journey, exploring the symbolic significance of the wavy line—a motif ingrained in the natural world. These sinuous lines, whether found in mountains, rivers, or lightning, symbolize both separation and connection, serving as gateways to the unknown and the void. In my interpretation, these fissures transcend mere divisions; they become conduits for detachment and evolution, mirroring the human condition.
Through artistic multidisciplines such as painting, sculpture, installation and digital media, I aim to convey the dual nature of these cracks, portraying them as symbols of both wounds and healing. The alchemical process of transformation unfolds within these portals, illuminating the internal shadows we carry and guiding us toward newfound light and consciousness.
Through my art, I invite viewers to engage in a profound exploration of the natural world and the deeper mysteries of existence, where division and unity intertwine, and wounds become pathways to healing and evolution.
BIO
Mario Rodriguez "MAREO" (born in Mexico City in 1981) is a multidisciplinary artist who grew up in Colombia and is currently based in Barcelona.
He obtained a B.A. in Architecture from UPB Medellin in 2004, a master's degree in Design from Elisava Barcelona in 2006, and a master's degree in Arts from UNA in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 2013.
Mareo has gained recognition for his work through 16 solo exhibitions and participation in various art fairs and projects across North America, Latin America, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. Notable exhibitions and events include "Arte nel Bosco" Land art project in Italy (2016), Art Toronto (2017), "Viaggio" at Palazzo Ferrero in Italy (2018), L.A. Art Show (2018), "Carre Latin" at Palais Royal in Paris (2018), Sharjah Islamic arts festival in Emirates (Editions 2018, 2019), Artefiera Bologna (2019, 2020), ArtVerona (2021), Illumia NFT monolith event inaugurated by Deepak Chopra in Miami (2021), "Portals" solo exhibition presenting four installations at Valletta Contemporary, Malta (2021), and his participation in the Istanbul Triennial with a site-specific installation in a fortress (2022). In 2022, Mareo was part of a group show alongside works of Christo and Jeanne Claude at Hexton Gallery in Aspen and placed an installation at "Wavelength" exhibition at Times art museum in Beijing, China.
Mareo's work has been published in various publications, including three books: "Expansion" published by Italian gallery E3 contemporanea and Vanillaedizioni in 2018, a self-edited book "Matter is condensed light" in 2020, and VC 03 featuring "Portals" exhibition by Valletta Contemporary, Malta in 2022.
His work has been acquired by private collectors and institutions around the world. Featured collections: Gerry Bonetti, Bruno Tropeano, Palazzo Ferrero in Italy, Margot & Dennis Knight in USA, Hotel Atlantis II in Dubai, META foundation in Malta, Sandstorm Gold Headquarters in Vancouver, Black gold museum in Saudi Arabia.