Pedro Batista
b. 1980 | Portugal
Pedro Batista’s work navigates the spectrum from life to death and all that lies between. His approach is deeply personal, often drawing from his own life experiences.
He portrays the human figure in an abstract manner, constructing imaginary settings that examine the concepts of presence and absence. This exploration of presence and absence is a recurring motif in his work, offering viewers a contemplative space to reflect on the transient nature of existence.
Batista’s creative process is intimate and reflective. He views his studio as a necessary space to connect and produce. His practice is marked by a consistent routine of daily studio visits, even if only for a short time. This routine fosters a sense of stability and calm, enabling him to maintain a continuous and evolving relationship with his art. Despite the challenges and frustrations that can arise, Batista embraces these feelings as they drive his creative expression.
He likens his series of works to wearing different masks, each series representing a new facet of personal and artistic exploration. These masks are connected by an underlying drive and aspiration, creating a cohesive yet diverse body of work.
The artist’s works often evoke a sense of nostalgia, a theme that permeates his paintings. This sense of longing is not a melancholic pursuit for Batista but rather a motivating force that compels him to create.
Living in the present moment is a cornerstone of Batista’s artistic philosophy. He finds inspiration in everyday life and the world around him, allowing these influences to provoke action in the studio. His series, Dance, exemplifies this, capturing the musicality of movement and emotion through a sequence of paintings. Each piece in the series represents a note in a musical composition, illustrating Batista’s ability to merge influences and blend visual art with other sensory experiences.
Pedro Batista’s work is a testament to his enduring pursuit of creativity and freedom. His art is not merely an expression of nostalgia but a motivated search for meaning and connection. His approach is rather intuitive than conceptual, where playfulness, exploration and discovery are the driving force.