As earlier posted, I was invited back down to Guadalajara, Mexico to paint for a once in a lifetime event, The Mayan Parade. The Mayan Parade is more than a collaboration of artists from around the world, it is an example of a global shift in consciousness and an understanding that a rebirth is quickly approaching. Artists that were invited to participate in the Mayan Parade are asked to paint a larger than life sculpture of the Mayan Emperor Pakal. Organizing the Mayan Parade is famed Mexican artist Karla D’ Lara. Over the years, Karla has become a great friend and big source of inspiration. With her creative vision and artistic prowess, their is no question as to why she is one of Mexico’s hottest artists. During my week painting in D’ Lara’s Tonala-based art studio, I found myself re-inspired by the culture and beauty of Mexico. As I walked through the streets with a very weak grasp of the Spanish language, I began to understand why I love Mexico so much. It is a complete stimulation of the senses. As an artist who is sensitive to his surrounding environment, I was able to taste life within these moments. It made understand why I live in New York City as oppose to anywhere else in the country. I am inspired by the history, the culture, the evolution that comes with time passed and that which remains the same. The country of Mexico is like a diamond, multi-faceted with colors illuminating from within. It is truly the Jewel of the World. For my Pakal, I wanted to paint a modern Mexican icon, Maria Felix, on top of the sculpture of an ancient Mexican Icon, Pakal.

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Along with the large Pakal, each artist had to paint a mid-size one as well. I didn’t have time to finish painting it while in Guadalajara so I wrapped it up, brought it on the plane, and finished it in my art studio. Below is a picture of my Pakal with a New York City backdrop.