Gustavo Torres was born in Guadalajara, Mexico, in 1967. He began
sculpting at a very young age in Mexico, training with accomplished
artists. Torres left Mexico after receiving his BFA to pursue a career in
art in the United States.
Torres
is both a talented visual artist and a master craftsman. Torres’ visual
imagery reflects the quiet, deep spirit of an ancient culture. Torres was
mainly influenced by Alberto Giacometti as well as the Nuns of
Guadalajara. His experiences while attending a private Catholic school as
a child had great impact on his early art education, and religious symbols
were his subjects during these formative years. Torres’ style is both
primitive and abstract and he looks to create a “spiritual balance” in his
art. He strives to elevate the human spirit by using primitive and natural
forms reminiscent of Mayan and Spanish cultures. Each of his sculptures
has the texture of antiquity, and the rough finger work and the carefully
chosen patinas convey a worn, earthy presence. Torres believes that “art
without spirituality is nothing.” This statement demonstrates his
reverence for life and serves as a tribute to the depth of his feelings
regarding the mysteries of creation.
Torres
describes himself as an old-fashioned sculptor as he uses centuries-old
lost-wax casting methods to create bronzes that capture intimate gestures
such as the sway of a woman’s hips or a furtive glance. The power of his
art is in its spontaneity, simplicity, and tranquility.
Torres
is an award-winning artist. He currently resides in Northern California.
His extensive training includes his former position as Metal Supervisor
for full phase production including patinas, molds making, wax and metal
finishing at the Artworks Foundry in Berkeley. He attended both the
University of Guadalajara and Monterey Peninsula College. His sculptures
have been exhibited at the Carmel Arts Association and several prominent
fine art galleries. He is a member of the Carmel Art Association and
received a Gold Medal in national competition for a life-size bronze bust
in Guadalajara.