Welcome to Creative Movement! Today we present a new chapter of inspiration and creativity. In our space dedicated to non-resident artists, we aim to amplify their voices and share their talent with our community. Today we are joined by Vale Wilson, a Chilean illustrator and member of our community. Vale often comes to enjoy the classes of Clara Rival. La Clandestina was also honoured to have its first mural painted by Vale and her partner Popi Leguizamon. Stay with us and discover the world of Vale Wilson.
What is your artistic vision and how do you define yourself as a creator? Is there a particular message or theme you try to convey through your work?
I like to play with duality and contrast in my work. Experimenting with the interaction between opposites: light and darkness, good and bad, strong and sensitive. There's something in that mix that really draws me in. I think my art tries to capture that complexity and convey strong emotions. At least I hope so.
Speaking of your creative process, where do you find inspiration for your work? Is there any ritual or routine you follow before you start creating?
I think inspiration comes from many places, but I usually find it mainly in music, nature and the women I admire.
As for routine, I don't have anything too structured. I do usually listen to music while I draw, and I think this plays an important role in my creative process.
Now, we'd love to know more about your most recent projects. Could you share one or two projects you've worked on and are especially proud of?
- Clothing collection with the Corona brand and runway show at Viste la Calle: I collaborated with the Chilean brand Corona and developed an exclusive clothing collection under my name. The collection was selected to be presented at the Viste La Calle fashion show in August 2023. This opportunity served as a platform to show my work internationally, allowed me to connect with industry professionals and helped more people see my work.
- Illustration Biennial 2024 catalogue: I was selected as one of 40 artists to be part of the Illustration Biennial 2024 catalogue. The Biennial aims to unify, promote and consolidate the excellence of Latin American illustration, and I'm very happy to be part of this edition!
Throughout your career, you've surely faced challenges. Could you share a particularly challenging experience and how it influenced your artistic development?
Signing up for painting classes at La Clandestina was an experience that I'm not sure I'd describe as challenging, but certainly as an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone. What started as an excuse to paint became a chance to explore other media and techniques, and to dare to paint without the pressure of achieving perfection or excessive detail — something I personally find very hard. I think this has had a really positive influence on my artistic development lately.
Art often reflects society and culture. How do you see your role as an artist in the community? And what do you think about the current direction of art and its impact on society?
I see my role as an artist as both a responsibility and an opportunity to express — and hopefully pass on to people — something that moves them. I think art is a super powerful tool; it's a form of communication that can stir emotions and prompt reflection in society.
As for the current direction of art, I think it's important to keep opening spaces for people looking to find their voice in art, moving away from the superficial pursuit of followers and likes. It's through diversity and inclusion that we can truly enrich our culture and promote meaningful dialogue in society.
