Viviana Garibay

Vi Garibay is a mixed media Artist, born in California, and raised in Texas. Garibay is self-taught and works predominantly with acrylic paint, spray paint and oil pastels to replicate the emotions felt while creating their whimsical works. Often taking inspiration from their colorful dreams, Garibay strives to rebel against minimalism through the power of vibrant and eccentric expression. Garibay has been able to contribute their take on themes regarding the constant struggle with one’s mental health through their on-going practice. Outside of the studio Garibay can be found taking photos on film, working with clay, and thinking of new ways to combine different mediums.

1. About the showcased work 

This piece was created from reused and found materials in my studio, from cardboard to plaster. I had a lot of paper from previous projects so I decided to use the remaining material for a paper mache heart. The center where the field is was constructed from the cardboard of a roll of tape. I had recently finished the roll before starting this project and decided it would work perfectly for the center. I loved working on this piece, the process was very intuitive even though this was my first attempt at making a sculpture from recycled material. I wanted to convey the innate human desire to be in nature because people can get wrapped up in technology instead of wrapping themselves with the warmth of the sun. My goal for this piece is to lure the viewer in and encourage them to spend some time in nature, whether it’s a short walk, picnic, or gardening. I’m proud of how this piece turned out and am so grateful I get to look at it every day and remind myself of the life I’m working towards. 

1. Quote, inspiration, anything else

The inspiration for this sculpture was from my constant yearning to be in a field of flowers, growing up watching Studio Ghibli films definitely contributed to that desire.