Let’s Talk. Yoyo Balagué
We’re delighted to be back with our Reading Material series where we speak to talented artists and makers that we admire. This week we had the honour of speaking to Yoyo Balagué, ceramist and painter whose work has been recently recognised in Ad Spain.
Where are you from and where is home now?
I’m from Barcelona but I currently live in a village near the coast called Torroella de Montgrí. It’s in the north of Catalunya, the province of Girona.
Tell us a bit about the Art scene in your area?
It’s an area where nature is predominant and there isn’t an apparent “scene” as such. However Empordà, the area where I live, is well known for being the refuge of many artists. Art and design is definitely in the historic roots of the area, hence why makers are attracted to migrate here. The pictorial tradition of this region has been apparent since the late nineteenth century and ceramics, since the eighteenth century especially in the area of La Bisbal.
How would you describe your work in 3 words?
Pure, Honest and Austere.
What was the pivotal moment that encouraged you to become an artist?
From an early age on I always imagined myself with a paint brush in my hand and I have always loved art. In later years, I went onto study fine art and from then on it just developed naturally. I began painting and ceramics came later. I think this was conditioned by the area where I live now, a land of tradition, nature and ceramists.
How did you find your style?
I guess the style found me. It just came really naturally which is nice.
“Nature drives my soul.”
What are your biggest influences?
Nature and the ocean.
“Nature drives my soul” is a quote I came across on your website. Can you tell us more about this?
Nature really in my biggest inspiration, it captures me and gives me peace.
How do you begin your creative process?
Selecting good music is always my first port of call ;)
What is your favourite type of music to listen to when you’re in the studio?
Music is my great companion. I listen to everything depending on my mood that day. Lately I've been listening to a lot of electronic music like Floating Points and Leon Vynehall.
What has been your biggest achievement so far?
On an artistic level, I am captivated by the idea of being able to connect with people emotionally without words, for me this is an achievement.
Who is your favourite artist/s and why?
Definitely Spanish Sculptor, CHILLIDA. In my humble opinion, he is the artist who best fuses nature with art and also for the musicality of his pieces.
Where is your favourite place to go to feel inspired?
THE SEA.
Do you have a favourite quote?
“Do stuff. Be clenched, curious. Not waiting for inspiration’s shove or society’s kiss on the forehead.”
Hotels can often be a great source of inspiration. Do you favourite hotel that you have visited recently?
I don't usually go to hotels, but the last time I was in Paris I stayed at LE PIGALLE and I was amazed. I highly recommend it!
What is your dream project?
To travel for long stays, do an artist in residency and to have the opportunity to paint and make ceramics along the journey.
What is next for you?
To prepare new ceramic pieces with new and more experimental materials and to elaborate totems that I have been thinking about for a long time. I am also preparing new pieces for two exhibitions for Milan and Cadaqués in 2023.