I take inspiration from cultural traditions from many parts of the world, but in particular from Mexico and Spain, where syncretism has created profound spiritual symbolism. I am interested in the convergence of myths and ritual practices between native American cultures and European cultures, where aesthetics blend and stories are woven, creating fantastical images, characters, and landscapes. In the same way, I'm inspired by other forms of complex interactions, such as that of organic and industrial materials that transform as they rot and decay into lush visual and structural forms. Many metaphors rise from these observations, as much as many referential expressions that may apply to paint, objects, and installation. Dreams, of course, inspire my work as well.

Agustín G. Garza
Born and raised in Mexico City
Currently living in Bordeaux, France

Artist Statement
The subject of death, decay, and resurrection has haunted me since I can remember. As a young artist, I began to explore religious symbolism and ritual as a way to reflect on these questions. My work later focused on how these subjects play out in institutional contexts such as church, state and corporation. The artworks created during this period were a combination of varied media and drew from early Christian iconography and commercial symbols. My fascination now, as it was then, is on the emotional, spiritual, and intellectual correlations that exist in the transformative processes of life and form, from biochemical decomposition, or industrial corrosion, to the transubstantiation of the holy host.

In my most recent projects, I continue to reflect on decay and transformation by making work that intertwines organic matter and man-made waste. Some of my objects blend natural debris with industrial waste and point at the process of change as each material decays. I may also capture photographic images of found objects which nature herself laboriously weaves into magnificent natural sculptures.

For me, the art process is an instrument for expression, a means to create beauty. But equally important, I believe art is a thinking process that allows me to understand what seems incomprehensible.

Selective Exhibitions
New Langton Gallery in San Francisco
Praxis Gallery, Minneapolis
Behind the Glitter, Helms District Gallery, Culver City, CA
SPARC in Venice, CA
The Brewery, Los Angeles, CA
Chapman Market, Los Angeles, CA
Art Center College of Design, Pasadena
Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City
Salón de la Cultura, Mexico City
Eagle Rock Cultural Center, Los Angeles
Modern Videofilm Gallery, Los Angeles
Los Angeles Mexican Consulate
Art Merge Lab, Pacific Design Center
2016 Top 50 Critical Mass
Couturier Gallery, Los Angeles

Teaching Experience
Universidad Anahuac, Mexico
Art Center College of Design, Pasadena
Art Center College of Design,Vevey, Switzerland

Education
Art Center College of Design
California College of Arts
Universidad Autónoma de México