The Story
Santos Orellana
Born in Honduras, surrounded by the legacy of the indigenous culture of the Maya, Santos belongs to the ancient worlds of temple-pyramids, sprawling lost cities, and a vast array of visual arts. Arriving in Newburgh, New York he found himself amidst street art and urban jungles. The symbolism from these vastly different worlds combine to define his unique aesthetic.
Artist Statement
"Basically what I do is create pictures which I believe to be a byproduct of an exercise that is purely dependent on maintaining a balance between the conscious and the subconscious. Through this practice I am able to tap into memories which for whatever reason until that point were unavailable to me. Now 11 years later I am convinced that this game gives me great insight into who I was, who I am now and maybe even provides me with a glimpse into who I may become in the near and or distant future."
The Adventure
Initially drawn to the syllabic nature of physical science's language, Santos attended Marist College, New York and began his scholastic career in the field of chemistry. After graduating in 1999, Santos found himself working for various pharmaceutical companies, exploring the complexities of compounds, properties, and the behavior of matter. After learning of San Diego's 'Biotech Beach' a sudden transformation began and with bags packed, Santos sets out yet again to discover a new landscape with an unforeseen direction, unbeknownst to him.
It is here, in Ocean Beach that the convergence of his applied scientific world met his creative voice; and although often repressed, its this voice that continues to emerge as Santos becomes familiar with the colorful and expressive communities of Southern California. As he picks up a brush for the first time, he remembers, "Paying attention. Paying attention to this existent world, where it can be altered and aggravated, but very accessible."
