Curator Chats: Elisa Bustos On Tola Navarro

The collection is inspired by how this October we are seeing people settle into their everyday life. They are taking everything that they have learned during the pandemic, and are bringing these new tools into their routines. They are finding a sense of rhythm and confidence in their lives, and are working towards the goals they have set for themselves.

It has been so interesting to hear about how artists have dealt with and adapted to the pandemic. It has not only affected the way they approach art and the concepts behind their pieces, but it has also forced them to adapt to the shortage of materials. I loved hearing how Tola took what he had available, paper and spray paint, and created a completely new body of work. It is in the adaptability and persistence that I see so much of Tola's heart in his work.

I first found Tola's work on Instagram. I was initially intrigued by his aesthetic and his manipulation of paper to create such a unique visual effect. Looking at his work, I felt my brain was being tricked, especially after learning that his pieces are 2D and not 3D as the visual effect makes you believe.

My favorite piece is 'In Orbit.' I was initially taken by the deepness of the charcoal color, and the depth I see in the different paper folds. As I took a step back I was able to appreciate more than the details of the spray paint, but also the landscape that appeared in front of my eyes — the mountains — taking me back to one of my favorite places in the world.