Andean bread, 2023

Ramiro Machaca  

His drawings and paintings display a very depurated technique as can be evidenced by his hyper realistic pieces. He does not stop there, but through his themes he proposes an Andean surrealism that, contrary to other approaches, provides a shocking and often crude depiction of the phantasies and myths that originate in the cultural heritage of the Bolivian highlands.

A major theme explored by his work is identity, and the relationship between the natural world and the construction of identity as a cultural entity. Tradition is often entangled with a surreal proposition to highlight the subtleties of everyday aspects of life. He also touches upon universal themes like the ephemerous and delicate nature of our existence.

In his landscapes he explores light and its interaction with the reflexes of the mountains employing vivid and warm colors. In his figurative pieces he plays with color to insinuate and contrast the main form with alternative imaginary depictions that do not have a concrete edge or end, leaving room for the discovery of other ethereal subjects or atmospheres.

Ramiro Machaca´s work has been recognized with all major awards in Bolivia, mainly in drawing and painting, although he has occasionally received recognition for his textile pieces. He has exhibited continuously since 2003 in salons and galleries in South America, the United States, and Europe.