The Daily Artist: Beyond the Scowl: Unleashing the Power of Science Fiction and Mayan Inspiration

Feature piece: No One Believes In the Elder Gods Anymore

In my junior year of high school, a new teacher named Mr. Narendorf entered our halls, emanating an irresistible coolness. With his slicked-back hair, persistent scowl, and chain wallet, he became an instant inspiration to me.

Under Mr. Narendorf's guidance, our writing skills flourished, but it was his introduction of science fiction that truly captivated me. While I had always enjoyed the genre, it was during that transformative junior year that I began to approach it with a heightened critical lens. Through science fiction, I discovered a parallel realm where authors deftly explored the complexities and challenges of our own world.

This newfound perspective reshaped my understanding of art itself. Several years ago, I embarked on a series of Mayan-inspired works, initially digitally creating photographs inspired by the Popol Vuh, the Mayan creation account. It's where the painter was trying to leave the photographer behind when I reflect on it. As the series evolved, I delved deeper, rewriting mythologies and expanding the vivid world within my art.

Within the abstract forms of my artwork, I bring forth characters that embody a science fiction-like duality. They become conduits for expressing my emotions, reflecting both the joyous and somber aspects of existence and everything in between.

Similar to science fiction writers, my Mayan-inspired art allows me to delve into the depths of consciousness. It serves as a vessel for exploring universal themes such as love, loss, identity, and transformation. Through each piece, I embark on a journey to bridge the gap between past and present, reality and fantasy, and illuminate the human condition.

In this expansive world of my creation, I find solace and endless inspiration. It is a realm where ancient mythologies intertwine with modern sensibilities, inviting me to dive deeper into the mysteries of life. And the best part? It serves as a therapeutic outlet, offering me profound insights at a fraction of the cost of traditional therapy.

-Sergio Santos