Bernardo Vallerino
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Bernardo is a Colombian-American mix media sculptor and installation artist interested in geopolitical issues of violence and human suffering. His inspiration comes from observations of the hypocrisy that exists between the rhetoric of human life value and the violent behavior of humanity. With his artworks he strives to engage his audience visually but also morally and philosophically. In order to present such sobering topics in an approachable manner he borrows from his child-acquired interest of insects and entomology. He uses insects as an inspirational source for many of the formal elements in his work and in many instances a vehicle to express metaphors. His sculptures and installation are created with the intent to have a micro - macro tension where the viewer’s immersion experience is driven by elements that require up-close investigation. At either distance, the work is clean and precise mirroring his deep respect for the victims of the topics he addresses. Vallarino, a NALAC fellow, has an outstanding record of solo, juried and group exhibitions as well as local and international awards. He graduated with a BFA in sculpture from Texas Christian University, an MFA in the same field from Texas Woman’s University and is the current coordinator of Fort Worth Art Collective and board member of Art Room.
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ARTIST STATEMENT
In my work I explore themes of human suffering, violence, abuse of power, politics, control and hypocrisy. These topics are all part of a larger social commentary regarding the disposable manner in which human life is treated. Under many conditions people are seen and treated as disposable, expendable or despised. I describe this disregard for human life by overlaying the violence in the world with the thoughtless manner of killing insects. Humans during times of social unrest and armed conflicts are seen through the same vernacular of insects - soulless, emotionless, drone-like creatures that are invasive and harbor malevolent intentions of harm. In addition to this violent metaphorical association, insects and entomology also inspire elements of anonymity, plurality, scale and identification. With the somber content of my work, I intend to pay tribute to the victims as well as to bring awareness to their suffering.
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