Today we’d like to introduce you to Aimee Mandala.
Hi Aimee, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I grew up in Long Beach, CA with a family history deeply rooted in architecture. Although I admired the profession, I never wanted to be an architect. I found myself more “free” in my approach to life and decided to follow my passion as a Creative Writing major in college. It is ironic that years later, I became an executive for an architecture firm. This role both challenged and pushed my growth both personally and professionally, but I found myself reaching back for a creative outlet and in November of 2019 I began to draw. After a month and a half of laboring and probably overthinking each line and shadow on my first drawing, I took a step back and was surprised by what I created. And not only was I surprised; I was motivated. That was the beginning. On January 1st, 2020, after three completed drawings, I made it a goal to put my work in an exhibition. Having my work on a gallery wall next to other artists was a way of getting outside of my comfort zone, pushing myself to grow creatively and allowing myself to see and be seen as an artist. I was entering unchartered territory. In October of 2020, my work was juried into my first ever group show at ShockBoxx Gallery in Hermosa Beach. The support I received from fellow artists was incredible. Since then, just 8 months later, I have had 24 pieces in 18 exhibitions in 8 different galleries both locally and across the US. It’s been a bit of whirlwind, but the best kind. Ultimately, I think I was always meant to do this, and the drive I have is evidence of that.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey has been anything but linear. For years I didn’t believe I harnessed the technical talent I saw that was so evident in my father and sister’s work (both architects and artists in their own right). In that regard, I think my biggest challenge was myself. Once I recognized what I was not only capable of, but also how much I enjoyed it and wanted to share it, everything else came about pretty organically. Being new to the craft, I focused on developing my skills, shared my process, explored different techniques, connected with like-minded artists, created community and worked diligently into the wee hours of the morning most nights– not only because I loved it, but because I needed it. I have a solid work ethic, so when I make a goal, I am all in. I am a bit of an extremist that way. When I am passionate about something, I can become quite obsessed which means that when I am not making art, 9 times out of 10, I am probably thinking about art. Being new to game, so to speak, I feel like I am catching up and I want to do all of it, learn quickly, move through it with everything in me– shout it from the rooftops!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a graphite and charcoal artist working on two concurrent bodies of work. One, named “Handmade: A Craftsman Drawing Series,” which has a very technical approach and is inspired by the commonly uncelebrated working hands of craftsman, their gritty tools and their rugged workwear. I’ve always had an appreciation for design, but more recently became fascinated with the act of ‘making.’ I believe as a society, we are so focused on the end result of a product or thing that we don’t value the heart and hard work that went into creating it. I believe each step is something that should be celebrated and that is why I enjoy highlighting it in my work. I revere the hand covered in metal dust, the torch used to braze the brass, the grease and grit embedded in old tools and the dirt under fingernails. With that said, I enjoy sharing my own creative process. You see me plan, work through a challenge, overcome a struggle, and at the end hopefully you witness a conquering of sorts. That’s where the art happens, in the fight to bring your vision to fruition- not just when you declare it complete. My other body of work is more loose in its methodology and features free-flowing views of landscapes and dilapidated structures. This series has some ominous characteristics and, as such, has been dubbed, “The Moody Series.” It is a complete contrast to my typically known work and I find it classically dark with a hint of dreamy. I relate these two very contrasting styles and bodies of work to my roles in life, both the technical, tightly organized side and the less structured, wild and free side. I think there is a push and pull inside of me that wants to be both and you see it here in my work.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I have always loved living in Los Angeles County. There is never a shortage of things to do and I am grateful for the culture, diversity and vibrancy of both its places and people. I admit I mostly stay in my South Bay bubble, but having the access to both the beach and the city is such a gift. I grew up going to the beach often, so it definitely is a part of my roots and cultural upbringing. But I also have great memories of my mom taking me and my three siblings to the LA art museums and stopping for ice cream or a sweet treat from La Brea Bakery on the way home. As an adult and emerging artist, I am grateful for the thriving art community I have found here. There is something so incredible about the energy, the fire and the push when you are amongst those who understand your drive, your passion and can appreciate your craft, no matter how different it may be from their own. With that said, I am grateful for galleries who have opened up their doors to me and the artists, friends and family who have cheered me on along the way.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.aimeemandalaart.com
- Instagram: a_mandala_art
Image Credits:
Tim Kjenstad
