Does Utopia really exist?
If so, would human nature be able to maintain the characteristics that made it ideal?

Currently I am revisiting the theme Utopia, which I have explored before in my drawings and paintings on canvas. The inspiration of this theme came to me from my home town in Venezuela where, despite every day problems, folks were optimistic in nature and I once considered a utopian place. In my journey to translate this optimism into my artwork I have used a variety of media, from soft pastels and color pencils trough acrylic paint over colored acetate sheets and transparent polycarbonate sheets, always with an emphasis in the use of color . My intent is to demonstrate a sense of joy or celebration through vibrant colors and shadow effects.

My works have evolved from a Utopia illustrated to a Utopia experiential. In my soft pastel drawings the Utopian urban landscape presents a fairytale quality while, in my polycarbonate paintings at first Utopia appears fragmented but as soon a light source hits the piece shadows describe the complete urban landscape. In my installations I reinforce my interest in the interrelation between light, colors and shadows by creating something that I called an “alternate dimension”, an environment through which people can walk and be immersed in a 3D version of my paintings. In summary, in all approaches, I want to share with the spectator the sensations that the colors of my city evoke in me.

Lorena Morales