Nature Exposed: An Interview with Linda Vallejo
Her Circle Ezine
Written and edited by Diane Leon Ferdico
New York University, New York
Winter 2007
Her Circle Ezine is dedicated to exploring the feminine experience in the world community. Through thoughtful and intelligent works of writing and visual artistry, women from around the globe contribute to the ongoing discussion about the multiplicity of women’s realities and the myriad forces that shape our lives.
In Nature Exposed, Diane Leon Ferdico speaks with the artist about her multi-cultural heritage and creative influences. Ms. Leon Ferdico states, “Throughout her career, Vallejo has focused on what she defines as human’s ‘metamorphic’ relationship with nature. Her many oil paintings, gouaches, sculptures, and installations capture the essence of ecological, spiritual, and political power by contrasting the elements of nature (earth, water, fire, air) and feminine archetypes (mother earth) with that of human intervention. In her feminist works, she transforms the sky, trees, and female figure to reveal mythical interpretations of the earth goddess. In other works the mundane and urban unite nature and the community, while revealing the honesty of the world around us – should we be brave enough to look.”
Linda Vallejo was born in Los Angeles in 1951, her family moved often throughout her formative years, allowing her sense of self and cultural identity to be informed by varied experiences throughout the United States and abroad. She lived in Germany before attending school in California and Alabama, then graduated high school in Madrid, Spain, and went on to earn an MFA from California State University, Long Beach. She now lives with her family in Los Angeles, where she established her own studio and gallery, Galeria Las Americas. Ms. Vallejo was selected for an Ezine artist profile for her commitment to the expression of the feminine experience through her work, her level of innovation and creativity, the impact of her work on society, and the longevity of her artistic career.
Diane Leon Ferdico was born in New York City. She has a BA in art history from New York University, and an MA from the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, NYU, The Draper Interdisciplinary Master’s in Humanities and Social Thought. She is an adjunct associate professor of arts at NYU, Paul McGhee Undergraduate liberal arts degree program. She also writes personal essays and articles and is a member of The National Association of Women Artists and Life Member of the Art Students League.
Full interview