I started 2024 with the incredible opportunity to showcase my series, "Atlantic Whisperer," at the renowned Agora Gallery in New York City. This exhibition hit a milestone in my artistic journey and something I wasn't expecting at all! The trip to New York gave me new insights about the art world and opened my mind for future and better artistic endeavours. It waaas a really special experience!
The Journey to New York
Taking my work from Terceira Island (Azores) to New York was an exhilarating experience. The excitement of showcasing my art in one of the world's art capitals was both nerve-wracking and inspiring. The biggest hurdle for the exhibition was shipping my largest paintings (110x110cm) from the Azores to NYC. With limited shipping options available, after more than a month of waiting, the large wooden crate finally arrived just two days before the opening.
The Exhibition
Agora Gallery, located in the heart of Chelsea neighborhood, was the ideal setting for my "Atlantic Whisperer" exhibition. This showcase, which unfolded from January 2nd to January 23rd, 2024, spotlighted 8 of my most recent works. Among these were two large canvases—“Atlantic Blue” and “Atlantic Garden”—alongside six framed paper paintings.
“Atlantic Blue” serves as an ode to the ocean, featuring a profound blue hue that captures the sensation of being beneath the water's surface, gazing upwards towards the light.
“Atlantic Garden” captures the resilience of grass, highlighting its persistent growth across the landscape, ensuring that greenery is ever-present.
The artworks on paper delve into the genesis of land, portraying volcanic fire and the burgeoning green of nature, echoing the volcanic roots of the Azores.
The Reception
The opening night is an experience I'll always hold dear. The gallery was filled with art enthusiasts, critics, and fellow artists, all coming together to experience the blend of Azorean serenity and New York City's vibrant energy as expressed through my artwork. Apart from the chance to polish my English, it was an immense privilege to discuss my work and creative process with art aficionados from across the globe. Engaging with their perspectives and interpretations of my art, I gained valuable insights and new avenues for improvement. Additionally, this gathering was a unique opportunity to forge meaningful connections, opening doors to new collaborations and expanding my artistic horizon.
Reflections and Gratitude
This exhibition transcended the mere showcasing of art; it embodied a cross-cultural dialogue, delved into the splendor of nature, and stood as a powerful affirmation of art's role as a universal communicator. Beyond these aspects, it also highlighted the transformative power of art in bridging differences and fostering a sense of global community. I am profoundly thankful to Agora Gallery for providing this platform and to all those who attended and lent their support to my work. Their enthusiasm and encouragement not only fueled my creative spirit but also reinforced the belief in art's ability to connect us across diverse backgrounds and geographies.
Looking Forward
Reflecting on my journey from the Azores to New York City, I'm sourronded by a profound sense of achievement and an anticipation for future endeavours. I vow to continue dedicating myself to my craft, driven by the milestones I've reached. This exhibition has not only opened new avenues but also ignited a passion to pursue projects of even greater ambition. Looking ahead to 2024, my calendar is brimming with participation in numerous art fairs across Europe, alongside several group and solo exhibitions. This expansion signifies not just growth in my career but also an opportunity to share my art with a wider audience, challenging myself to new heights and embracing the diverse experiences these platforms offer.
Conclusion
My exhibition at Agora Gallery felt like realising a long-held dream.
It served as a powerful reminder of art's capacity to bridge distant realms, stir profound feelings, and open the doors to fresh viewpoints.
I'm immensely grateful to all those who have accompanied me on this remarkable journey. This experience has not only been a milestone in my career but also a catalyst for personal growth and understanding. As I look forward to embarking on new adventures, I carry with me the invaluable lessons learned and the connections made during this time. Here's to the future and the endless possibilities it holds... Let's keep going forward!
For more images, check my Instagram publication:
https://www.instagram.com/p/C1uh8K2OvNu/?img_index=1
