Meet John Guzman: Painter

We had the good fortune of connecting with John Guzman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi John, what do you attribute your success to?
The simplest insight I ever had with myself as a painter is concentrating on the things I can control and disregarding the things I can’t. In the past I was intrigued but misunderstood by the concept of recognition, never asking myself why I thought this was important. I later realized I romanticized the lives of artists of the past and glorified their popularity. This attitude I had with recognition did nothing beneficial toward my practice and became more of a distraction from things that are more significant to my career. I concluded that I had no control over my notoriety and what is more important are the progressive mile stones that lead up to success. My efforts had become directed toward improving in any aspect I could, such as make reading a part of my daily routine, maintain a strong work ethic and to make work with complete honesty.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My work is derived from personal experiences in the constant rhythm of cause and effect. I have observed the transformation of the body and mind to an almost unrecognizable state. In my images I deconstruct the human element to represent punishment brought upon oneself and the sense of loss that can exist in someone familiar. I use rooms of domestic architecture to provide a recognizable setting, walls and stairs are utilized as a symbol to emphasize distance between myself and the toxic environment. I describe my work as sentiment expressionism, my representation toward witnessing people give into their habits, losing sense of priority and contaminating the home environment.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If you want me to show you a good time in San Antonio give me a heads up. I have my hidden gems that I would like to keep that way. Also, stay away from the River walk. Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to show my appreciation to the professors at the Southwest School of Art. They provided me with the confidence and resources needed to becoming a practicing artist on my own. Also to my love at the time, she encouraged me to make this commitment toward something greater than myself. Lastly, I want to thank the friends I have shared memories with along the way and the many more that are yet to come.

Website: Johnguzmanstudio.com

Instagram: johnzolism

Other: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2kvlGIyeY7SazZSNeeDJ0b?si=luQjPstXTuK_T9KRLbK3Yw