Interview
Antonio Galvan
Antonio Galván began his artistic journey at the age of 19, when he arrived in New York City. His career was shaped under the mentorship of acclaimed artist Manolo Valdés, where he refined his technique over 24 years, specializing in bronze casting, glass, ceramics, resins, wood sculpture, and painting. Galván’s artistic vision focuses on the interaction between the tangible and the intangible. Through the transformation of various materials, from the strength of bronze to the transparency of glass, his works invite reflection on the relationship between humanity, space, and time. His work has gained international recognition, with notable exhibitions such as Art Basel 2019 and a feature in Manolo Valdés in Glass. Galván continues to challenge the boundaries of creativity, exploring new techniques and striving for artistic perfection in each piece.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I’m a Mexican sculptor and painter. My journey in the art world began at the age of 19, when I started working as an assistant to the artist Manolo Valdés. Over the course of 24 years, I learned various techniques, such as bronze casting, glasswork, ceramics, and painting. This experience allowed me to develop my own style and artistic approach, which continues to evolve today.”
What inspires you?
“My inspiration comes from the deep connection between humanity, space, and time. Through my works, I aim to explore how the tangible and the intangible are interconnected. I seek to capture moments of introspection and reflection, using materials such as bronze, glass, and ceramics to express both fragility and strength. I believe these qualities coexist in the human experience, and I try to reflect that in each piece I create. Additionally, my time working with Manolo Valdés was a great source of learning and inspiration, as it allowed me to enter the art world with a solid foundation and an appreciation for various techniques.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“In my work, I am interested in exploring themes such as introspection, memory, and the relationship between the tangible and intangible. Through my pieces, I aim to capture moments of deep reflection on human existence, the passage of time, and the emotions that define us. There is an underlying message about the duality of life: how fragility and strength coexist in our everyday experience. Through the materials I use, such as bronze, glass, and ceramics, I seek to convey this complexity and the tension between what we can see and what lies beyond the surface.”
How would you describe your work?
“My work combines abstract and figurative elements to explore the connection between the human being and their environment. Through materials such as bronze, glass, ceramics, and resins, I seek a balance between strength and delicacy. My pieces invite contemplation, creating spaces of silence and reflection on existence, memory, and the passage of time. I am drawn to the simplicity of refined forms, where every line and texture has a purpose, allowing the essence of the work to speak for itself.”
Which artists influence you most?
“I am deeply inspired by artists such as Amedeo Modigliani, for the elegance and elongation of his figures; Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, for their ability to tell personal and social stories with emotional intensity; and Pablo Picasso, for his constant pursuit of innovation and breaking boundaries. I also find inspiration in great figures of contemporary art, whose exploration of materials and concepts continues to expand the possibilities of artistic expression.”
“My work combines abstract and figurative elements to explore the connection between the human being and their environment.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process begins with quiet reflection and sketching, where I explore ideas and forms on paper. From there, I select the materials that best convey the emotions or concepts I want to express - whether bronze, glass, ceramics, or mixed media. As I work, I allow the piece to evolve naturally, balancing intuition with technical precision. I enjoy the dialogue between the material and my hands, letting texture and form guide the final outcome. Additionally, I like to go against traditional rules about how materials should be used; I experiment and play with them to discover unexpected results. Each work is a journey that blends planning with spontaneity, always leaving space for discovery along the way.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“The role of the artist in society is much more than creating works. We are witnesses and storytellers of our time, challenging conventions, generating deep reflections, and in many cases, provoking change. Art has the power to move, question, and connect people on an emotional and reflective level. In a rapidly changing world, artists must also adapt, and today, with the rise of digital platforms and the convergence of technology with the arts, we have the opportunity to break boundaries and reach wider and more diverse audiences. I see this shift as an opportunity to make art more accessible, interactive, and collaborative, creating a space for global dialogue that speaks not only of what is, but also of what could be.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“Yes, I have had the fortune of showcasing my work at several prestigious exhibitions. One of the most notable was my participation in Art Basel Miami 2019, where I had the opportunity to present my sculptures to an international audience. More recently, I exhibited at Art Expo New York 2025, which represented another significant milestone, allowing me to connect with collectors and art lovers from around the world. Additionally, I have upcoming exhibitions scheduled at the Focus Art Fair and Art Santa Fe, among other exhibitions, which will be key moments in my career. Each of these exhibitions has been an invaluable experience, helping me grow as an artist and connect with a wider community.”
Website: www.antonio-galvan.com
Instagram: @antoniogalvansculptor
Brush Bio: www.brush.bio/antonio-galvan
