Today we’d like to introduce you to Juan Loza.
Juan, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I am an immigrant from Mexico. I came to the United States 18 years ago. As a young boy, I had many dreams and sometimes, felt lost in this country. As I was growing up, I used to watch channel 8 and see the amazing filmography documentaries from the show “Nature.” It inspired me to want to become a biologist and as also read National Geographic. It made me look at the world differently, and from then on, I knew I wanted to do something in the world of film and photography.
Later on, as I went through college, I pursued my degree in photography and learned about the natural world. My mind has always been very curious. Now, I found myself doing artistic compositions incorporating many different styles and aspects of photography. My goal in these projects is to invite the viewer to see the world from a perspective that might surprise them. I am always looking for and working on new projects for people to see and give ideas to the world by telling a story through photography.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I am a photographer. I explore artistic mediums that can composite the natural world’s myth and spirituality. Exploring the natural world is a primary theme of my work. Another strong influence is my desire to examine the varied and interesting realm of human behavior. I seek out projects from my everyday walks in nature, my experiences and ideas, and weave them together in my work. My hope is that people find inspiration in my work, and perhaps new or different ideas about our world, as well as make a connection with their own selves and the connection we share.
What I think people should know about my composite pieces of art is that sometimes the art itself can be strange and surreal, but will lead the viewer to make a discovery about their own truth.
Regarding my nature photography, my goal is to show the world exactly as it is, a stark contrast from the fanciful and at times outlandish artificial reality, I create in my composite work. Where the nature photography captures the perfect beauty of nature without any alterations or man-made modifications, the art I create in composite work turns that natural world upside down.
Do you think conditions are generally improving for artists? What more can cities and communities do to improve conditions for artists?
I think that there is a lot of room for artists today but the social and economic systems in place limit artists in their ability to create. I do feel that this is a crucial time for artists, as artists have, throughout history, provided a snapshot of their time, as well as a blueprint for what can be achieved in the future. The city of Phoenix provides several outlets for artists such as the First Friday art walk and has a growing number of events in the city for artists to both create and showcase their art. Continuing to expand these opportunities, and providing real material support to creatives can foster an environment for an even more robust artistic community.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
In 2013, I published my first book, “Visions of the Desert” and I am currently completing my second book. My work has been published in a variety of magazine and online sources, and my photos can be found on modelsociety.com. I have a YouTube channel that I am creating content for, including interviews with other artists. I appreciate the support from my community in the form of continued access to events and venues, so I can continue my work.
Contact Info:
- Website: JuanLozaPhotography.com
- Instagram: @LozaPhotography
- Facebook: Loza Photography
- Other: ModelSociety.com
Image Credit:
George Madrid, Juan Loza
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