Alexis Paneda

Artist Statement:

My artwork meshes whimsical and surrealist imagery together to prompt people’s imaginations and their storytelling abilities. I incorporate colorful, odd details and uncanny elements that keep people looking for something else to dissect. The fast-drying properties of acrylic paint and gouache mean that there are layers and versions of these paintings that others will never see, which I like to think of as a secret between me and what I’ve made. The influence of my digital art background is always present at the back of my mind when I’m painting and comes through in collage-like elements implemented in several of these pieces. Simulating a variety of textures is an integral part of my work, especially with patterns and swatches that seem out of place at first glance.

I am a Design major and the foundations my designs are built from come from my lifelong experience making art. The illustrative nature of my work is a result of my career interest in illustrative graphic design. I believe the joy of volleying between digital and traditional mediums creates a bridge between them that challenges my versatility and adaptability as an artist.