A new exhibition has arrived at the Akin Vitrine Gallery for the month of June! Be sure to swing by 1747 St Clair Ave, where the vitrine is viewable 24/7 from the street, to check out Carlos Olavarrieta’s new exhibition, Sunset Shapes.

Carlos is an artist who produces non objective oil paintings rooted in rhythmic patterns and created in an unplanned manner. His newest oil on canvas, Sunset Shapes, will be on display from June 3rd to 27th.

”I work in oil paints on canvas. My paintings are non-representational, abstract with soft lines, and vibrant colours. Originally rooted in an interest in patterns and rhythms, my paintings have moved away from a rigid approach or intent. The paintings are determined by discovering an unknown image. The result is that the finished paintings are a manifestation of playfully painting. I do not want the process to feel like work, and I believe that overworking the painting can close the initial creative energy. Discovering an unknown image is achieved by approaching the blank canvas with no previous sketches or ideas in mind. Out of the resulting chaos, shapes and colour command space, and are brought into focus with minimal painting. As a result, the paintings present new images with an unpolished quality. Thus, the paintings are creative play revealed as an image. “ —Carlos Olavarrieta

We caught up with Carlos to learn more about his work, inspirations and process.

Akin: “What are you curious about right now?”

Carlos Olavarrieta: “Different brushes.”

Akin: “Do you have studio routines or rituals? What gets you in a creative mood?”

CO: “Approaching the canvas with no idea or sketch.”

Akin: “What inspires you?”

CO: “Music.”

Akin: “What does your Akin studio mean to you?”

CO: “A creative community.”

Akin: “What advice would you tell your younger self about creating art? What have you learned?”

CO: “The process takes time.”

Learn more about Carlos’ work or reach out:
@artistcarloso
colavarr@hotmail.com
artinteriors.ca/artists/carlos-olavarrieta