When I first laid eyes on Stefhany Y Lozano's artwork, I was immediately drawn to the unique focus on hands and gestures. It's an intriguing choice, one that sets her apart from many other artists. Personally, I think there's something deeply captivating about how she uses hands as the central narrative element in her paintings.
Born into an artistic family in Bogotá, Colombia, Stefhany's path to becoming an artist was anything but straightforward. Despite completing a degree in Product Design, she found her true calling in illustration and painting, thanks in part to the guidance of Georg Barber (ATAK) during her MA studies in Germany. Her journey is a testament to the idea that sometimes the most rewarding paths are the ones we least expect.
The Power of Hands and Gestures
In her work, Stefhany explores the expressive power of hands and gestures. Take, for instance, her Coqueta series, where a woman's made-up face is half-hidden by her hair, while her hands and the cosmetics scattered on the desk hint at a story of feminine aesthetics and intimacy. Or consider the Intimidad Pública series, where a figure's intimate moment is captured in a public space, raising questions about the boundaries of privacy.
What makes this particularly fascinating is how Stefhany uses hands to convey emotions and narratives. She explains, "Most of the time hands are the protagonist; I use hands as a communication tool in my paintings." This approach adds a layer of depth and intrigue to her work, inviting viewers to interpret the subtle nuances of body language.
A Unique Creative Process
Stefhany's creative process is as intriguing as her artwork. She begins with lists rather than sketches, a method that allows her to explore a range of "scenes" she wants to portray. The use of rulers and self-made templates adds a sense of structure and freedom to her work, a contrast that I find especially interesting. It's a unique way of working that seems to suit her artistic vision perfectly.
In her newer series, Stefhany experiments with oil paint to add texture to her depictions of skin, and she's even ventured into fabric, creating soft sculptures of hands that extend her paintings into three-dimensional space. This evolution in her practice shows a willingness to explore new mediums and push the boundaries of her art.
The Artist's Perspective
Stefhany's perspective on her work is refreshing. She aims to keep her personal work free from external influences, trusting that there will be an audience who resonates with her unique style. This confidence and freedom in her creative process are inspiring, and it's no wonder that her paintings have been exhibited in prestigious galleries around the world, from London to Mexico.
As she continues to build upon her series and explore new ideas, I can't help but feel excited about the future of her artistic journey. Stefhany Y Lozano is an artist to watch, and her unique approach to communicating through fingers and gestures is a testament to the power of body language in art.
