As the artsy sibling of our fellow Phoenix New Times blogs, we often run into some of the coolest and most talented folks in town. Jackalope Ranch proudly presents "100 Creatives" in honor of Best of Phoenix, which is just a summer away, expect it on newsstands and computer screens near you September 30.
The Creatives are the cultured superheroes -- and heroines -- of metropolitan Phoenix. Have a suggestion for someone you'd like to see? Leave it in the comment section. Maybe we'll convince your favorite Creative to do a fly-by with us.
First up: Fausto Fernandez.
Fernandez spent his first 25 years in Ciudad Juarez. He moved to the U.S. and graduated University of Texas with a degree in graphic design and painting, then came to Phoenix in 2002 and has been working at his studio "The Lodge" on Grand Avenue ever since.
Fernandez' work has been featured at the Mesa Arts Center, Tempe Center for the Arts, Phoenix Art Museum and Heard Museum. Out of town: Smithsonian's George Gustav Heye Center in New York and The Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto.
1. Five things on your Inspiration Wall (real or imagined).
My family, other artists, the universe, risks, friends.
2. What's your last big project?
I was invited to create an installation at the Scottsdale Waterfront Canal, at the Marshall Way Bridge, commissioned by the Scottsdale Public Art administration. The installation was made of expanded polystyrene foam pieces painted with latex attached together when the canal was dry. Measuring about 200 ft, the piece then floated when the water was brought back to the canal.
3. What's your next big project?
I'm working on a series of paintings for a solo show at Gebert Contemporary Gallery in Scottsdale scheduled for November this year. I am also working on a floor design in Terrazzo for a new lightrail station that will connect to the airport.
4. How much do you hate being asked what your next big project is?
Being an artist is a project in itself and if I have a big project coming up, I dont mind sharing.
5. What's something you want Phoenix to know about you?
I love museums, i worked at different museums in the Valley installing exhibitions before I decided to work as a full time artist.
