Victor Manuel Salinas

Fashion Institute of Technology

Artwork title: La Familia Rodriguez
acrylic on canvas | 34 x 44 inches

Tell us about the work that you have submitted.
La Familia Rodriguez is a representation of a Mexican-American family. There are many different attitudes people have towards Hispanics and Latinos, but I wanted to reflect my point of view.

How do you describe your work and practice?
The paintings and drawings I produce often reflect the state of mind I was in during the making of the artwork. For instance, one painting may have a more sophisticated/traditional appeal due to a formulaic approach, whereas another work may be composed of wild brush strokes due to an abstract emotion. Nonetheless, I believe every artist takes an intuitive approach as it may reflect their intentions. For example, I may paint with the intent to practice, relieve or impress, or to simply paint for the sake of painting.

What motivated you to apply to the AXA Art Prize?
Coming across this opportunity was a blessing. I was attracted by the opportunity for my artwork to be exhibited, like (last year’s winner) Monica Ikegwu.

What inspires your work?
When you’re young, you’re naive and dream of hopefully achieving wealth, strength or happiness. However, as you live you learn from various experiences with friends, family, strangers and yourself. Those lessons learned may be good or bad, but they’re essential to building your character. Life is what inspires me to create because I want to share what I’ve learned and what I believe ethically, spiritually and artistically. I don’t create to boast but prefer to compose my ideas and make them a reality in order to hopefully communicate with viewers.

Instagram | @vickblicks