Today we’d like to introduce you to Juan Villegas
Hi Juan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My passion for art took root in my childhood, with drawing becoming an integral part of my life from as early as I can remember. Japanese Manga initially captivated me, drawing me into a world of fantasy and otherworldly themes that have always held a magnetic allure. During high school, my interest expanded to painting and art history, where I discovered Surrealism. This discovery filled me with a profound sense of joy and wonder, offering a glimpse into the fantastical lineage of creators who came before me and helping me find my place within that tradition.
In 2005, I moved to Texas to further pursue my studies in art. By 2010, I had graduated from Sam Houston State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, focusing in studio art. During this time, I worked various jobs in galleries, museums, and art supply stores, all while actively showcasing my work, primarily in Houston.
In 2014, after becoming a father, I relocated to Austin and took a brief hiatus from my art career. However, in 2017, following a failed marriage and a deep sense of frustration with the world around me, I found a transformative place that would forever alter the course of my artistic journey—Cherry Cola Dog, an art warehouse dedicated to showcasing local talent. Immersing myself in this vibrant community sparked a positive shift in my life. It was here that I met my now-wife and fellow artist, Rosemary, marking a pivotal moment that ignited our shared inspiration and drive.
By the end of 2018, feeling the momentum building, Rosemary and I took a leap of faith and decided to pursue art full-time. We founded our company, Surreal Nature, embarking on our journey as an artist couple. It turned out to be the best decision I ever made. Six years later, not only are Rosemary and I still thriving as full-time artists, but we also run a nonprofit arts organization called ArtUs Co. Through ArtUs Co, we provide opportunities for other artists to showcase and sell their work. We now have art studios, a gallery, and a gift shop, and our organization is rapidly becoming a vital institution within the Austin art scene.
As I continue this journey, I remain deeply committed to art and to fostering a vibrant community for other artists. Every new project, collaboration, and connection serves as a reminder that this path—though challenging—is infinitely rewarding, and the journey is far from over.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The artist’s journey is rarely a smooth one, filled with numerous challenges along the way. Overcoming self-doubt and transforming wishful thinking into genuine belief is a crucial milestone. It’s essential to accept rejection from galleries and not allow negative feedback to deter you from pursuing your work. As a self-employed artist, you must show up each day, even when there are no projects on the horizon and uncertainty looms over when the next paycheck will arrive. Above all, it is the unwavering belief in yourself and your mission as an artist that keeps you moving forward.
Understanding the business side of art, networking, and summoning your creative talent on demand are necessary skills for making it as a working artist. These are the challenges that test your resolve, but they also shape your journey, making every success even more rewarding.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a Colombian-American artist specializing in visionary and surreal art, where I delve into themes of transformation, duality, and ancestral wisdom. My art is a journey into the mystical, drawing inspiration from the likes of Magritte, Dalí, and Jodorowsky, and is deeply influenced by esotericism and mysticism.
What I’m most proud of is the deep connection between my life and art. My personal search for truth and knowledge is intricately woven into my artistic expression, resulting in work that resonates with rich, mystical concepts while remaining visually captivating.
What sets me apart is my unique ability to blend surrealism with esoteric symbolism and natural elements. This synthesis highlights our inherent interconnectedness and creates a distinct visual language that speaks to both the conscious and subconscious mind.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was a shy and introverted kid, often lost in my own world. I spent most of my time sketching, listening to music, riding my bike, and hanging out with a few close friends. While I had a brief interest in soccer, I outgrew it by my teenage years. Around the same time, my parents divorced, which marked a shift in my interests. I became more deeply involved in art and music, forming bands, creating art, and engaging in philosophical discussions with friends, which became a significant part of my identity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.surrealnature.art/juanvillegas
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/villegasartist
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juanvillegas.surrealnature
- Other: https://www.artusco.com
Image Credits
Personal photo image credit: Bryan Olivas Orozco
