Ambiguous Symbolism: What's your interpretation?

Here is a sneak peek into one of my most recent paintings. I will not share the title with you yet, because I don't want to influence your interpretation. If you are familiar with my work, you already know that what is contained in this canvas is not random. The symbolism contained in this painting is very specific, but I would love to read what your interpretation is.

 

Please add you comments with your interpretation. I love the fact that paintings speak to people, based on their life experiences, emotions, ambitions, etc. So there is no way to be wrong. Go ahead, don't be afraid to open the gates of your mind and share your interpretation.

The Bronze Age: A New Artistic Era of Inspiration

Today was an awe-inspiring day, where I saw the hard work of some artists, materialize into something beautiful. While some artists use clay as their medium, others work on a much more valuable material... People. In the winter of 2008, I began dreaming about creating some sculptures inspired on my tree characters. Today I moved a step closer to realizing that dream by casting my first set of sculptures in bronze.

 

Among those who have helped me realize this dream are my dear Jen, who has provided me with the tools, support and focus to bring this dream to fruition. Luis Soto, who has used his many years of experience in working with sculpture and mold-making to show me a world of new possibilities. Then there is Ken Arblaster, from the Maitland Art Center, who is a master in bronze casting and was instrumental in making my bronze sculpture a reality.

These people and many of you who have always supported my artistic vision, are artists in your own right. Working in the valuable medium of human inspiration. To all of you thank you!

May you enjoy many more blessings, for being of blessing to me.

The Artist's Late Night Shift

This is a preview of a painting I am creating for a collector. In the comfort of my family room, and the serenity of the late night, I am enjoying a calming painting session.

It was already 1:48 am when I was working on this painting and looking back now, a few months later, I have very good memories of working late. I am thankful to God for giving me this talent of for giving me the opportunity to share it with all of you.

I hope you enjoy it and share it with your friends.

"Fruit of Our Love" and Fruit of Our Garden

What an inspiring thing to see God working and providing for us through so many amazing channels. Never could I imagine the pride and joy it would bring me to be able to eat from the land that surrounds me. God has provided for me and my family and now I enjoy the fruit of our land through the bountiful harvest of some home-grown organic tomatoes.

Our hard working little plant has not stopped producing tomatoes this summer, almost as a lesson to me to continue working hard regardless of how merciless the sun can be on my back. Warmed by the relentless sun but inspired by the perfection in this cycle of life. It surprises me how soil, which might have looked devoid of nutrients at one point, can be the fertile ground for the satisfying fruit of our labor.


In this photo, I am holding just today's harvest in front of my most recent painting titled "The Fruit of Our Love". It is a celebration of the miracle of birth and the circle of life. Share this painting with all of those who have been blessed by having a child or are expecting a new addition to the family. I hope you enjoy it.

Be blessed,

Juan "One" Sepulveda
www.OnesGallery.com

Creativity Fueled by Caffeine

Like a strict commitment, a cup of coffee accompanies me to the studio every morning. It has been a faithful companion for many years now, but recently my morning companion took on some new responsibilities... It became an artistic medium.



This painting is made entirely out of coffee and ink on a distressed watercolor paper. I loved the freedom of painting and making a mess, while creating something beautiful. I thoroughly enjoyed creating this piece and hope you like it as well. Please add your comments below.

Be blessed,

Juan "One" Sepulveda
www.OnesGallery.com

The courage to keep walking

I am thankful to God for the doors he closes before me to protect me and guide me to those doors which will be more beneficial. I am thankful for the times that I have been disappointed and quickly realize that there is an alternate path for me. I am thankful for the moments where things don't seem to be going my way, but in reality they are.

Make sure that as you walk your path, you make a strong effort to stay conscious of the fact that out of all the doors available, only those that will help you in your path will be open. That those not mean that the outcome of walking through those open doors will always be pleasant, it means that it is a small contribution in the overall fulfillment of your life's plan.



I encourage you to think about this painting when doors close before you, as I have for many years now. Think of yourself in this situation, where no matter how many doors close in front of you, the correct opportunities await you. This painting has proven to be such a helpful tool in my life and hopefully it becomes an important aid in yours as well.

Be blessed,

Juan "One" Sepúlveda
www.OnesGallery.com

The King of Pop Dies at Age 50

At fist I was incredulous, but it is official that Michael Jackson, also known as the King of Pop has died at the age of 50. Although the title "King of Pop" has been disputed by many, especially those who point out that he was the "self-proclaimed King of Pop", he certainly lived a life full of triumph and defeats like many kings throughout history.


As an artist, and by having grown listening to his music, I am inspired by his artistry, but saddened by the tragedies and struggles he endured. As the eternal optimist that I am, I will chose to focus on the great things he did and the inspiration he gave many to proclaim that they can become the best or at least live and die trying.

May he rest in peace.

There's a hole on my canvas!

It's on purpose. This is only a sneak peek at a work in progress. Can you decipher what is the symbolism behind this painting? Please post your comments.

Out of Focus

Sometimes we can be a little distracted by our surroundings, wondering aimlessly through our daily lives, but it doesn't have to be that way. Today, for example, I have lacked the focus that I usually have and could not figure out on what to focus my energy. I bet that this is something that happens to you too and hopefully want to address. I'll tell you what has worked for me today, in hopes that it helps you fan away the fog that doesn't let you see your intended goal.

I decided to first acknowledge that I was lacking focus. That acceptance catapulted me into problem-solving mode. I started listening to some Jazz music (select your favorite, instrumental preferably to minimize distractions)and began writing things down. I see this as a funnel that helps me gather a myriad of ideas and thoughts and put them in a tangible form that I can later analyze.

I now have a list of things to do, some nice creative melodic atmosphere in my studio and a renewed sense of control, which I believe is crucial in tackling on the day. I don't claim to be a productivity guru, I'm just an artist sharing a solution, that might yield the benefits of creating something great. Maybe today that something great will be just to accomplish a few tasks in my list, but overall, it is that first step in regaining my focus and pressing forward onto bigger things.

I wish for you, a day of clear focus and productivity. I pray that you will have a renewed sense of empowerment and control and I trust that as you lay your head on your pillow tonight, you will feel that you conquered by getting back Into Focus!

Have a blessed day,

~One~

(Painting titled "Out of Focus" by Juan "One" Sepulveda)

Art that Inspires You!

There is nothing like living in a house that reflects you and your history in every corner. Every room of the house is like walking into a museum that displays the stages of your life and experiences. Whether you are an art collector or a proud parent, make sure to surround yourself with art that inspires you.

A painting is something that accompanies you through your life and serves as a constant reminder of your purpose in life. It is a reminder of those moments that make your life meaningful. Paintings are not only a visual representation of a place or a person, they are a vivid icon that has profound meaning.

I encourage you today to hang some meaningful art in your walls. I would obviously prefer that you hang my art on your walls and share it with your loved ones, but even if it is another artist's art, make sure it uplifts you and motivates you.

I have made a personal commitment to create things that stir emotions, inspire people to grow and prosper. Please make sure that you surround yourself with positive works of art that will welcome you to "Today" every morning and guide you to "Tomorrow" as you go to bed.

I pray that every time you look at one of my paintings, you can take a minute from your busy life and remember all the great things that God has given you and look to the future with expectancy and trust that the days ahead will be even better than days gone by.

May you be blessed every day of your life.

From my heart...

Juan "One" Sepulveda

Gibson's GuitarTown: Meet the Artists

On Sunday, April 26 you will have the opportunity to meet the artists of Gibson Guitars Orlando GuitarTown event. The gigantic 10ft guitars along with the elegantly designed showcase guitars will be on display at the Orlando Farmer's Market on Lake Eola. You will have a chance to speak with the artists and add their work to your collection.

The artist Juan "One" Sepulveda designed a guitar exclusively for the event and will be sharing his inspiration with the visitors. His creation is titled "The Dream of Music" and will be auctioned off to benefit several local charities.

More information will be posted regarding the auction event in the next few weeks.

Event Hours:
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

"I will not last you all your life"

It's 12:53 PM and I just took a break from painting to load the dishwasher. Something rather mundane, which usually gets my mind going. As I was putting some glasses into the machine, I remembered those words, which my mother uttered quite often when I was growing up "I will not last you all your life". She used it as a way to encourage me to learn things and learn them well while she was alive. I didn't think much of it then, but in retrospect she was partly right.

She was right in the fact that it was important that I learned things and learned them fast, because she was not going to live forever. I sure wish she would have lived much longer, but for the time I spent with her, I at least listened to her and learned many things from her; Things that will be with me for the rest of my life. This in fact is where she was wrong, even when dealing with boring everyday things and years after us looking into each other's eyes, she will last me all my life because in every day I live, in every decision I make, in every dish I place in this dishwasher she is here with me.


Thank you for making me the Man I am today. I love you Ada

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For those of you who have a Twitter account, follow me. Just like with my blog titled "Behind the Canvas" (http://onesgallery.blogspot.com) my postings through Twitter are charged with thought-provoking comments and exclusive information related to my art and the creation process.

I have been sharing photos of works in progress, photos of inspiring items within my studio, photos from events, etc. I hope you enjoy it and sign up for my blog as well.

Stay inspired and live blessed.

Juan "One" Sepúlveda
www.OnesGallery.com
OnesGallery.BlogSpot.com

The Power of Words

Above is an ambigram I designed to keep my mind from idling. An Ambigram is a graphical representation of a word, which when viewed from different perspectives, it spells the same thing. In this case, if you look at it upside down it continues to spell "Focus Force".

I chose these two words because they are powerful reminders of the wonderful things that can be achieved when we focus. Words carry the power to heal and to harm. To attract and repulse. To build and to destroy. Chose them carefully and opt to say positive statements out loud. I am not asking you to come up with mantras to recite throughout the day, although you may chose that if you like. I refer to stating audibly what you intend to create in your life.

Before today's meeting, declare that it will be a success, and be at peace in the expectation that it will be so. Before walking out the door in the morning, declare that today will be a day full of blessings and so shall it be.

I challenge you to put it to the test today and tomorrow let me know what miraculous things happened in your life as a result of it. I have put it to the test today. As I write these words I have declared audibly that after you read this, you will put it to the test and it will be fruitful. Not to convince you of this truth, but so that you can enjoy the blessings of this fact and share them with those around you.

Work in Progress: Untitled (Lincoln)

This is my latest instalment in the Mosaic Impressionism collection. As you can see the central theme will be the Abraham Lincoln. Surprisingly enough, a man who lived troubled by the possibility of not leaving behind a legacy. Now, almost a century and a half after his death, his life continues to inspire millions and encourages them to also work hard to make a difference.

Here is what people thought about "The Journey"

Shortly after publishing this painting on various website including www.OnesGallery.com, here are some of the interpretations that people shared with me. I am always happy to hear the different emotions that come out of analyzing a painting.

Fanny P. – Orlando, FL
Title- 'The Search', the search for treasure, search for clear skies after the rain, being fruitful in whatever endeavors...thirst.

Rafaela C. – San Juan, PR
"We reap what we sow" In our path (journey) through life, we shall encounter the fruits and rewards of what we have planted.

Vanessa T. – San Juan, PR
This is the new era. We cut old promises to the economy... We want a chance again to build a new road of life. Economy will grow when we build new commitments in our society. Work with our own tools. We must care for the earth, it is time to work with the soil.

Margie V. – Tampa, FL
By the puddle of water I could infer that it had been raining...but the rain cleared and now I see a non-treacherous road offering bright opportunities...

Joann C. – Toa Baja, PR
There’s a silver lining in everything.

Ines R. – San Juan, PR
BIRTH

Donna S. – Orlando, FL
On the Way to Oz

-Please take some time to add your interpretation or comments regarding this painting below-

Thank you,

Juan "One" Sepulveda
www.OnesGallery.com

Gratitude

As I revised my blog entries, I noticed that I never published a message titled "Gratitude", despite having started it near thanksgiving day.

I am grateful for the people God has brought to my life with the purpose of guiding me, protecting me and loving me.

I am grateful for the talent he has entrusted in me and for the desire I feel for developing it to its highest potential.

I am grateful today, even for the obstacles I have encountered in my path, because they fill me with determination and help me be grateful for the stretches of this path that are not as challenging.

I am grateful for you taking the time to read this right now, because I wrote it for you. To remind you to lift your head above the fog and focus on the great things God has given you, as you continue your journey fulfilling your purpose.

May you continue to be blessed.

Juan "One" Sepulveda

What is the meaning of this?

You might be wondering "what is that?" Well, to me it means something very special; however, if you had to guess for yorself, what do you think it represents?

Please add your comments below and I will be revealing the meaning of it shortly.

Inspiring Trip of Surreal Proportions

There is a subtle magic to spending time with people you love and
people who love you; A subtle charm to be inspired by little details
all around.

Today I have been magically charmed in the presence of

great friends and my sweet wife, by the art of Salvador Dali, the
simple food of Wendy's and the immeasurable joy of memorable
conversations.
Yes it was a good day... I am blessed.

Different interpretations of a single work of art.

As I published this painting on my website (www.OnesGallery.com) and other websites, here is what some of you wrote about your unique interpretation of it. I am very pleased with these contributions and encourage you to email me your interpretation of this and all other paintings.

Fanny P. - Orlando, FL
I see 'New Discoveries on the Horizon' in this painting, whether it's about life in general, discovering yourself, teaching others about life, or learning to discover a new found love, and seeing that come into play expecting only the best from that new arrival.

Ines R. - San Juan, PR
I fail to see any of us as a work in progress, but I do acknowledge that, in our remembrance of things long forgotten by means of the dense veils that cover us, we are not all that we can be; and the process of remembering will provide those horizons, not a limited vision. The boat is always there, ready to be boarded; the sea..perhaps calm, or perhaps troubled, but always ready to be conquered when there is a lack of fear..and the horizon, reminding us that there is nothing we cannot do if we set our mind to it. And the figures to the right of this exquisite and impressive beauty serve to remind us that we are all one; for in all truth, there is only one of us here.

Deborah M. - Miami, FL
sometimes, we spend so much time deciding if we should go or stay, that the opportunity to go dissappears. If you are luckiy you have someone who chooses to stay behind with you.

Alicia P. - San Juan, PR
Para mi la cara de la arena representa una persona pensativa. Idealizando las diferentes maneras de amor que existen en la vida. Veo el amor de parea, el amor de una madre para un hijo... Me encanta, esta precioso, que Dios te siga bendiciendo en tu arte.

What will this year bring?

As you may know, I declared that 2008 for me was going to be "The Year of New Beginnings" and so it was. I got married, I signed with a prestigious publishing company, I turned 30. All great beginnings.

Now I have declared that 2009 is "The Year of Growth". It is time to water and nurture what I have sown and wait on the promise of God that it will be fruitful. I am glad to share in this journey with all of you.

Now, its your turn... What are you expecting for 2009?