December Artist Feature: Jorge Azcona
South Jersey Cultural Alliance is pleased to highlight the work of Atlantic City based artist, Jorge Azcona or Spiral Eye whose motto is "True. Counter. Culture." Azcona graduated from Stockton University and currently attends Drexel University's graduate program to receive his Masters in Museum Leadership. Azcona creates artwork influenced by his Mexican and Indigenous heritage, political activism and satire, 90's music scene and punk music, flash tattoo sheets, alternative fashion statements, and incorporating a D.I.Y. approach to his art.
Bándida, Acrylic on Wood Panel, 2ft x 2ft, 2023
Can you tell us about your practice?
Azcona: Through a very D.I.Y. process, most of my work is done at home. Many times I am experimenting with different mediums through trial and error, as I do not like to limit myself to one medium. Everything typically starts with a digital drawing that I create using my tablet and if I decide to bring that design to the real world, the design is transferred to whatever medium I decide to try out that week. I've been a creative since a young age, always going above with my designs, whether it be for school or my own personal artwork. Every piece I create draws from my various influences, as well as the emotions I am going through at the time. Each piece carries a piece of me with it.
Unmasking the Facade, Collage/Posca Marker on Wood Panel, 1ft x 1ft, 2023
Can you talk about your collage and block printing process?
Azcona: For my collage making process, I usually start by weaving strips of paper to create a unique background. The subject matter of each piece however usually starts with a random idea and through lots of experimentation, the end result tends to deviate greatly from the original idea. One of the common themes in my collages is the use of cut out eyes. I believe that the eyes can tell a story that sometimes can't be put into words and the use of them in my work can evoke a different message to everyone. For my block printing process, everything is trial and error. I usually start with a larger grandiose idea and realize that I usually bite off more than I can chew and the end product is usually a scaled back product of the original idea but one that captures the essence of the original idea and what I'm capable of.
Las Lágrimas No Me Detendrán, Acrylic on Wood Panel, 2ft x 2ft, 2023
How has South Jersey impacted your practice?
Azcona: My artwork is mainly inspired by the music I listened to growing up and my experiences, both culturally and socially, while living in South Jersey. It has been a creative outlet for me, both emotionally and mentally. I'd like to think that as I continue down my art career path, my artwork will continue to change and reflect the life experiences I go through while also still staying true to who I am.
Follow Jorge Azcona, Spiral Eye, on Instagram and check out more work on their website!