READER XXXV Sculpture

« I try to ensure that my creations inspire moments of reflection and connection with the world of books.» The central themes of his pieces revolve around reading. José Manuel, through his figures of geometric lines in unrepeatable scenarios, seeks to transmit various emotions with the reader. His creative compositions are mainly based on wood. Hello! I'm José Manuel, a passionate sculptor from Madrid, and I'd like to share a little about my artistic journey and the essence of my work. It all began thanks to a small but powerful book, "My Testament" by Auguste Rodin, which awakened a profound creative impulse within me. Since then, I've found sculpture to be the perfect medium to express what is often imperceptible. In my early work, I drew inspiration from ancient art, creating bas-reliefs that pay homage to ancient cultures. Each piece is a journey through the aesthetics, symbolism, and mythology of those times. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to hold several exhibitions and manage a gallery in Madrid, an experience I greatly value for the direct contact with the public and other artists. Over time, my work evolved towards philosophical sculptures, initially in acrylic resin on methacrylate. I have participated in group exhibitions, most notably receiving a sculpture medal at the 110th anniversary of the Spanish Association of Painters and Sculptors. Currently, I continue to explore this line of work, but now I am working with wood, which allows me to connect even more deeply with the essence of my creations. In my works, I seek to convey an intimate language between form and profound feelings, a reflection of my inner self and a search for answers to the great questions of human existence. As John Anthony West said, “Art is not only meant to be enjoyed but to illuminate.” My sculptures explore themes that deeply move me. They are based on the journey each of us takes within ourselves, the inner struggle between the material and the spiritual, the capacity to rise again after falling, fragility and grandeur, and the relationship between the invisible and visible worlds. My greatest wish is that my creations touch the hearts and souls of those who contemplate them, illuminating their lives in some way. Thank you for joining me on this artistic journey!