Interview

Written By Adelé Kotzé

Antonio Galvan

Antonio Galván is a Mexican sculptor and painter who began his artistic journey after arriving in New York at the age of 19. For 24 years, he was mentored by the renowned artist Manolo Valdés, where he perfected techniques such as bronze casting, glasswork, ceramics, resins, wood sculpture, and painting. His work explores the interaction between the tangible and the intangible. Through the transformation of materials ranging from the solidity of bronze to the transparency of glass, his creations invite reflection on the relationship between humanity, space, and time. Galván has gained international recognition, with exhibitions at Art Basel Miami (2019) and Manolo Valdés in Glass. His work continues to evolve through experimentation with new techniques and a constant pursuit of artistic excellence.

 

What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?

“I was born in Mexico City in 1980 and moved to New York City at the age of 19, seeking new opportunities and experiences. My journey in the art world began under the mentorship of the renowned Spanish artist Manolo Valdés. Over 24 years working alongside him, I perfected various techniques - such as bronze casting, glasswork, ceramics, resins, wood sculpture, and painting. This profound experience shaped both my technical skills and my understanding of artistic language, ultimately allowing me to develop my own artistic voice.”

What inspires you?

“I am inspired by the interaction between strength and fragility, permanence and ephemerality, the tangible and the intangible. The materials themselves are a source of inspiration - their textures, weights, and transparencies awaken ideas about humanity's relationship with space and time.”

What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?

“My work explores the connection between humanity, space, and time. I aim to provoke reflection on how we inhabit the material world while maintaining a connection to what lies beyond it. The underlying message invites contemplation of balance, transformation, and transcendence.”

How would you describe your work?

“My work fuses diverse materials - from the solidity of bronze to the transparency of glass - into sculptural and pictorial forms that invite personal interpretation. It is contemporary and timeless, grounded in craftsmanship and open to introspection.”

Which artists influence you most?

“Manolo Valdés, as my mentor, had a profound impact on my practice. I am also inspired by artists such as Amedeo Modigliani, Pablo Picasso, Diego Rivera, and Frida Kahlo - visionaries whose ability to blend material, form, and narrative has shaped my understanding of artistic expression. Their exploration of identity, symbolism, and cultural depth continues to resonate in my own work.”

“My work explores the connection between humanity, space, and time. I aim to provoke reflection on how we inhabit the material world while maintaining a connection to what lies beyond it.”

What is your creative process like?

“My process begins with the material. I let its texture and energy guide me. From there, I create sketches and models that evolve into larger works. It is a constant dialogue between concept, medium, and intuition.”

What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?

“The artist's role is to create spaces for reflection, dialogue, and emotion. As society changes rapidly, artists will increasingly serve as bridges - connecting past and future, physical and digital, personal and universal.”

Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?

“Exhibiting at Art Basel Miami in 2019 was a significant milestone, presenting my work to an international audience. Participating in Manolo Valdés in Glass was also meaningful. Additionally, exhibiting at ArtExpo New York allowed me to consolidate my presence in one of the most relevant platforms of contemporary art, bringing my work to a diverse and global audience.”

 
Adelé Kotzé
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