Meet Maku López
Meet Maku López, a standout artist with a keen eye for the nuanced interplay of light, color, and emotion.
Her education at SEK University in Segovia and a master's degree in Photography from EFTI, Madrid, set the stage for a career where each canvas and photograph is a window into human experiences. Her paintings, vibrant with colors and bold expressiveness, engage viewers with a narrative that tackles the complexities of identity, memory, and emotions.
In her photographic work, Lopez captures moments that tell stories, convey feelings, and invite reflection, balancing the vibrancy of life with the subtleties of individual experiences. Her photography is about sharing stories, unveiling truths, and celebrating the diversity of life's expressions.
How has living in New York influenced your artistic expression and inspiration, especially given the city’s diverse fashion and art scenes that could be enriching your work?
M.L: As a visual artist, photographer, and painter, living in New York has been an incredible experience that has influenced my creative process. The city's diverse cultures have exposed me to a wide range of perspectives, styles, and themes that have influenced my work in different ways. The textures of the city, old patinas, colors, and abstract forms are things that call my attention. New York's diverse cultural landscape has influenced my photography, providing me with a rich tapestry of subjects to capture.
How do you balance your artistic intent with the spontaneity inherent in capturing photographic moments?
M.L: I like to create photographs that are both planned and spontaneous. Sometimes the most powerful images come from unexpected moments that arise during the shoot. I try to be aware of the moment and be present.
What methods do you utilize to ensure that your photographs exude unique energy and maintain a feeling of freedom?
M.L: When I work with models, I like to explain the idea of the project beforehand and don't give too many indications while I'm shooting. So we both share a moment of freedom and connection. I’ll repeat this as many times as needed, but probably because I come from working in cinema, I always liked the idea of the director giving indications to the actors outside the camera and letting them act freely while the camera is rolling.
Can you share insights into your upcoming projects or explorations in photography and how you plan to evolve your current style?
M.L: I'll evolve my current style by keeping on working and seeing where that brings me. Only by doing it can I have the perspective to see where I go next; it's not predictable. I'll find the answer while doing it. Keep being creative, curious, and enjoying the time.
What These Words Mean to Maku López
2024- Personal growth and transformation.
Two hands touching 36x36’ acrylic and oil on wood panel.
Freedom- Painting while listening to music allows me to tap into a creative freedom. The music serves as a catalyst for my imagination, allowing me to create from a place of inspiration and joy.
MUSIC 30X24’ acrylic and oil on canvas.
Intimacy- Expressed through physical affection and sexual connection.
Love" 30x40’ Oil on wood panel.
Energy- Rebirth, endless flow of vital energy, self-discovery through an introspective journey.
“New Born” 40x30’ acrylic and oil on wood panel.
New York- A city full of treasures.
Untitled. 35 mm Film.
Community- I met Tyler, Sabrina, and Bishop in Brooklyn while walking on the street at different times. I introduced myself and asked them to come for a shoot to my studio one day. This picture represents to me authenticity, raw beauty, and a sense of belonging to a community that is what I like to express with my photography.
Untitled - 6x4.5 Film.
Wonder- I took this photo when I first moved to NY. I remember the feeling of wonder that this empty street in Chinatown produced on me. The contrast between the usual chaos and the quiet, peaceful atmosphere of the moment was like stepping onto the set of a movie that was about to start rolling.
Untitled- 35mm Film.
Beauty- Everything from our emotions to our thoughts and feelings, from the cells in our bodies to the plants around us, is changing and decaying continuously. The flower’s fragility and impermanence is a reminder to appreciate the beauty that still remains.
Untitled - 35mm film.
Maku Lopez's art is a reflection of her dedication to exploring and expressing the human condition, engaging viewers with an insightful style that prompts a dialogue transcending the visual to touch the universal. Her art is a journey of continuous exploration, creativity, and connection.
