ROGELIO MANZO MEXICO, 1975

EMBRACING CHAOS AND RECONSTRUCTION

Rogelio Manzo’s artistic process is a relentless search for balance within disorder, where chaos and accident are not obstacles but essential components of creation. Through his work, he provokes disruptions only to reconstruct them, finding harmony and beauty in the battle between control and spontaneity. His practice is deeply rooted in his upbringing in Mexico, where he was exposed to traditional artisans and the bold use of materials, colors, and textures in local craftsmanship. This early influence shaped his approach, leading him to continuously experiment with new materials and techniques, merging tradition with innovation. Manzo’s exploration of portraiture goes beyond capturing likeness; his dark and compelling images expose the fragility of human existence. He strips away the body’s protective layer, revealing scars—both literal and metaphorical—that mark the passage of time and personal experience. His figures appear as if they are being forced into authenticity, their rawness reflecting a meditation on mortality and vulnerability. His work has been exhibited extensively in the United States, Mexico, and Europe, including solo and group shows in commercial galleries, international art fairs, and museums such as The Museum of Modern Art in Mexico City. His pieces are also part of significant private collections, including The Karen and Robert Duncan Art Collection and El Museo de La Cancillería in Mexico City. Through his ever-evolving exploration of materials and portraiture, Manzo continues to challenge artistic conventions, transforming disorder into deeply moving visual narratives.