Espantapajaros, 2025
Pencil on bristol paper
9 x 12 in
Juan’s work is rooted in his Puerto Rican culture, based on the people, the land, the animals and the connections between them. Juan is rarely seen without his sketchbook in hand. His favorite medium is pencil and paper, and his sketchbook is a crucial part of his life. He often focuses on drawing his family or incorporating them into his imagery, creating pieces that are based on memories, connections between people, storytelling and a narrative. His greatest inspiration is his brother, with whom he is very close. Juan’s drawing additionally helps him to stay calm and express himself.
Birds are a recurring motif in Juan’s work. Sometimes, he depicts them as pigeons and chickens, simply due to his fondness for these creatures. However, they also hold a deeper meaning in his art. He will often portray birds and people together, sometimes with a person having a cage for a body and a bird inside. This imagery symbolizes the intricate relationship between humans and nature. He incorporates elements that are natural to his Puerto Rican ancestry, including words and images to tell his story.