Pablo Andrade-Cortes

Artist Statement

I am deeply passionate about capturing and preserving moments through my artwork whether it is an objective or a subjective experience. The theme of my pieces typically revolves around reflections on my own experiences or ones that I have observed and studied. For example, in my Burnout series, I highlight several perspectives of stress that were exacerbated as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The piece titled "The Pharmacist, 2022" was inspired by my spouse, who works as a pharmacist. Through this artwork, I aimed to convey the unique stressors faced by these underappreciated healthcare professionals during the pandemic. "The Educator, 2021" draws from my experiences as a substitute teacher in public schools, shedding light on the challenges faced by educators returning to in-person learning. Similarly, "The Student, 2021" reflects my own experiences as a learner as well as my observations of student behaviors while studying education. Although we may not personally experience these roles, we can empathize with how their environment affects them. For instance, the viewer could feel sympathetic for the subject, become the agitator, or simply be an observer.

Typically I start by employing my skills in architectural drafting by creating digital blueprints on a complex grid before upscaling them on canvases. Using a mathematical grid ensures proper visual movement and an equilibrium of visual weight. The spatial environment highlights key elements that create a sense of pressure, similar to what the subject experiences within the painting. These objects also act as a visual break between the varying styles utilized. There are two predominant styles within each piece: abstraction, and realism. Abstracted elements offer viewers the opportunity to establish a connection while presenting clues to direct those assumptions, building a bridge into a sense of realism. Each piece uniquely displays a progression in style and atmospheric perspective, individually influenced by various movements in art history. However, inspired by French impressionist artists such as Édouard Manet and Realist painter Gustave Courbet, the palette and technique walk the line of rejecting traditional academic paintings by defying customary representations of everyday subjects. This formed the integration of different styles into a modernized pastiche-like approach while documenting societal issues of our time. The audience's interaction with each piece depends on how their experiences relate to the main character and the elements that surround them. I encourage my audience to empathize with the circumstances of each subject and reflect on their position.

Biography

Pablo Andrade-Cortes was born and raised in the Tri-State area of Hackensack, New Jersey, where he developed a strong passion for mathematics and the arts.

In 2018, Pablo embarked on his artistic journey by enrolling in a local community college to formally study studio arts. Immersing himself in various exhibitions, he also balanced his studies with a part-time job as a picture framer at a local craft store where he learned to properly manage and handle artwork. His dedication and talent were quickly recognized as he achieved the Best in Show award for his photography in 2018. This honor led to the inclusion of his work in the school department’s permanent art collection. Pablo also developed his skills in oil painting.

Determined to further his education and refine his craft, Pablo set his sights on pursuing a higher degree in fine arts. With a developed portfolio, he applied to various schools and successfully gained admission to the visual arts program at Florida Southern College in 2020, marking the beginning of an inspiring chapter in his life.

Adapting to the challenges presented by the pandemic, Pablo started the first year of his degree through distance learning. This experience not only honed his technical skills but also instilled in him the discipline required to manage a studio effectively. Upon returning to campus in 2021, he developed his artistic style in oil painting while immersing himself throughout art history. He was particularly inspired by French impressionist artists such as Édouard Manet and Realist painter Gustave Courbet, his palette and technique walk the line of rejecting traditional academic paintings by defying customary representation of everyday subjects. This formed an integration of different styles into a modernized pastiche-like approach while documenting societal issues of the present time.

In addition to his studies in the fine arts, Pablo substituted for his county’s public schools part-time while also taking courses with the school of education which helped structure his time management as an emerging artist. Pablo's work is driven by a strong sense of purpose as he educates his audience on often neglected topics that play a significant role in our modern lives.

Pablo's dedication and talent were consistently recognized throughout his college journey. In 2021, he achieved a remarkable 3rd place in an annual exhibition for his hand-pressed achromatic monotype print. His participation in group exhibitions at local art galleries, such as Artifact Studios in Lakeland, Florida, further showcased the depth of his artistic expression.

Pablo's relentless pursuit of artistic excellence culminated in his graduation from Florida Southern College in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts, specializing in oil painting and education. Post-graduation, he found a unique balance in his career, serving as a math instructor for a private institution while actively seeking avenues to exhibit his artwork in local galleries and digital publications. Through his experiences post-college, he continues to capture and preserve moments through his artwork with a theme that typically revolves around reflections on his own experiences or ones that he has observed and studied.

Untitled_(01/06/2021)_Ink on print paper_ x inches
The Pharmacist, 2022_Oil on canvas_48 x 60 inches
The Educator, 2021_Oil on canvas_48 x 60 inches
The Student, 2021_Oil on canvas_48 x 60 inches
Untited_Oil on canvas_ x inches