Claribel Olivas 

One of the hallmarks of Surrealism is the use of motifs to express emotions or ideas. Whether it be Salvador Dali’s use of ants or contemporary artist Gustavo Rimada’s use of flowers and skeletons motifs reveal something about the artist without telling everything. Motifs in works help establish an artist’s unique iconography and in a way act as a signature. Work that has recognizable imagery is distinguishable and recognizable. After I completed my introductory classes I became interested in developing motifs in my own work. Once I reviewed my sketchbooks, I realized that I tend to draw insects and discarded objects that are abstracted and paired with organic lines and patterns. Discarded objects always brought a sense of nostalgia and curiosity for the world around me. The insects used in my work represent my general emotions. Since I have always been shy my feelings and ideas always felt bothersome. Like insects, my emotions felt intrusive and always lingered in my space. Because I am able to physically represent my insecurities, I am better able to understand myself as an artist and as a person.