
Tola Navarro
Born: 1984
Hometown: Santiago
Based in: Santiago
Born: 1984
Hometown: Santiago
Based in: Santiago
Tola Navarro, born in 1984 in Caracas, Venezuela, is the grandson of a sculptor and the son of a Chilean poet. He has a degree in Architecture with a minor in Art History from the Universidad del Desarrollo. In 2016 and 2018 he participated in contemporary art research residencies in Lima and Sao Paulo respectively. Tola has exhibited at Galería Arte Espacio, ArtStgo and Faxxi. In 2019 he is invited to a residency in Contemporary Art in Sao Paulo, and in 2020 after his father passed away, he decides to build a permanent workshop in Batuco, Chile.
Tola’s work stretches the possibilities and potential of a medium to express ideas around color, architecture, and technology. His innovative treatment of simple raw materials transforms them into inspiring new structures, forms, and expansive landscapes. He engages in deep research into his materials, allowing him to create a relationship with the medium.
What inspires you?
Light and shadow, geometry and color
Describe your creative process.
In his series “Paper & Spray,” Tola wrinkles and folds paper, paints on the folded paper, and then finally irons the paper flat. This unique process allows the canvas — usually a passive foundation for paint — to become an acting agent in the creation of the work.
What are 3 words that best describe your work?
natural, rythm, organic
Who are some artists that have influenced your work?
Felipe pantone, mark rothko, vasili kandinski,
What is the most important tool when creating your work?
Spray paint and iron.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
My grandad once told me "You just have to see, beauty is everywhere."
Where do you go for inspiration?
to the mountain to hike and walk for hours.
1 Article
10 Latin American Artists to Watch Out for in 2023
September 08, 2023
Education
Taller Analisis de obra Matias Movillo
Chile, 2019
Universidad del desarrollo
Chile, 2011
Awards
Valparaiso MAP 3
2019
Exhibitions
FAXXI
Chile, 2022
Doble Engaño
Chile, 2019