Explorations in Circular Motion
The Evolution of Mariana Copello’s Artistic Process
When first encountering a piece by Houston-based visual artist Mariana Copello, one of the first things you notice is its impeccable execution. From the application of color to the precision of every edge and finish, it is clear that every single detail has been carefully thought of.
Nonetheless, if you take the time to get to know the piece, as well as other works by Copello, you start finding captivating clues to the artist’s mind and creative process.
I have been in close contact with Copello’s artistic investigation since the day we met, more than eight years ago. Back then, Copello had just exhibited what would become one of her signature pieces at an annual juried exhibition at the Glassell School of Art, where she was still a student. The piece, a striking yellow Allegro [Image 1] was, to me, the beginning of an outstanding never-ending exploration that would take different forms and shapes, but that would always keep a connecting thread.