Scrap metal fated for junk yards and household items used in many facets of one’s home are morphed into tantalizing sculptures and majestic photographs by an artist who sees the beautiful in the ugly.
David Rivas, photographer and sculptor, presented his art and methods to Oxnard College students and a 5th grade class from Sheridan Way Elementary School, who were visiting OC as part of their fieldtrip.
Rivas explained that his work was not traditional at all, but abstract and colorful so that everyone could use their own imagination in deciphering what they were seeing.
“Scrap metal is something that is destined to go to a landfill, to be recycled,” said Rivas. “So, I’m stopping it and I’m recycling it on the spot. I’m finding some use for it in the condition that it’s in before it’s discarded.”
Rivas uses lights, metal rods and mirrors in combination with items like cones, light bulbs, salad bowls and Windex bottles to create bold and eccentric reflections needed for his photographs. Rivas then develops his art in a dark room directly from the film used in his camera.
His pieces are not digitized in any way, adding the natural aspect of his work.
Rivas answered questions from the audience and interacted with the excited elementary class, as they viewed his photographs through the PowerPoint presentation.
The class was receptive to the art and sculptures, allowing many of them to blurt out what their imagination initially allowed them to see, as others sat still in awe of the bold colors.
“You are born an artist,” said Rivas. “Get the tools to create. If you have imagination, your tools will make them real.”
Lights and reflections are fascinating to Rivas, and he explains that he tries to capture it because it distracts him.
Rivas is a well-rounded artist that not only excels with his work in fine arts, but also has a knack for music, which allows him to express himself in a whole separate spectrum.
“If you’re an artist, you’re driven to create things,” said Rivas. “The key is to listen to yourself.”
Gloria Centurion, a 21-year-old art major, became more open-minded to using other mediums for art after seeing the presentation.
“I was actually kind of surprised,” said Centurion. “I wasn’t expecting something like this. It’s very inspiring to see how different artists work with different mediums.”
Rivas’ art was exhibited in museums and various venues throughout Ventura and Los Angeles Counties. Carnegie Art Museum, Museum of Ventura County, Red Brick Gallery, Civic Arts Plaza and The Getty Museum are just a few places where his work can be found.
Shelley Savren, English professor and coordinator for this event, enjoyed the vigor in the audience and also appreciated Rivas for speaking to the elementary class about using their imagination to create.
“I thought this would be a good lecture for the elementary class,” said Savren. “They were very enthusiastic and had a lot of energy. In the end, they were really excited by the presentation.”
