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Alfredo Cardenas
As I rummage through my stacks of metal (junk to most people), I constantly visualize uses for the things I find. From those bends, angles and curves, I visualize animals; arms, legs heads, always contemplating ideas for my next sculpture project. From bed frames to automobile parts, garden tools to office furniture, everything has potential art value.
After working many years in graphic design, publishing, silk screen printing and teaching art, I presently spend my days creating metal objects, working in mixed media, acrylic and pastel paintings. I Studied at Rocky Mountain School of Art in Denver and although I am a self-taught welder, I apprenticed under pioneer Chicano artist Moises Sanchez, who, at age 78, was still creating his art based on Mezzo-American themes. Born in Denver, CO, I am a second generation Coloradan. My grandparents were born in northern New Mexico where the family name goes back to the late 17th century. I have informally studied ancient Mexican cultures for more than three decades, developing a fascination with Mayan and Aztec art, fascinated by the tribes' rich culture and dominance in pre-Columbian Mexico. Additionally, imagery from more recent Mexican history and my personal urban Mexican-American/Chicano experience comprise my greatest influence on art. These images are always with me, they represent my heritage and the have a beauty and simplicity that show me great potential in my own media. From these sources I draw much of my inspiration.
Art by Alfredo Cardenas | 
