Art can play many roles in the life of both the consumer and the artist. It is emotional, visceral and many times serves as refuge for both the person creating it and the person enjoying it, it can even evoke distinct meanings for both the creator and the consumer. In the world of contemporary abstract art, the meaning lies in the eye of the beholder; however, in this article we will try to find what is behind the art in our interview with the highly regarded Guatemalan artist Lucia Bueso.

A New Beginning: Art as a Refuge
Lucia’s path into the world of painting began at a pivotal moment in her life: the birth of her first child. “It was an incredibly emotional and overwhelming time for me,” she shares. As she navigated the challenges of early motherhood, she sought an outlet to process the intense emotions she was experiencing. Painting became that refuge. It allowed her to express herself in ways words couldn’t, offering a sense of balance amidst the chaos of a new life stage.

Though Lucia had always been drawn to art, it was the challenges of motherhood that provided the catalyst for her return to painting. "Art has been a passion since childhood," she recalls, reflecting on her early memories of watercolor painting with her mother. The vibrant colors and expressive nature of art have always fascinated her.

The Power of Color and Design
While Lucia is primarily self-taught, her deep love for color and design plays a significant role in her artistic process. "I enjoy looking at and scrolling through interior designs," she admits. This interest has cultivated her ability to think spatially, understanding how different elements interact within a composition. This skill translates directly onto her canvases, where she carefully arranges shapes, layers, and colors to create emotional balance.

Lucia is inspired by a diverse range of influences, from the abstract expressionists like Mark Rothko and Willem de Kooning to the rich textiles and traditions of her native country Guatemala. “The cultural landscape of Guatemala is a rich source of inspiration for me,” she explains. The country’s vibrant traditions, bold colors, and intricate patterns are deeply present in her work.

Artistic Challenges and Evolution
As a self-taught artist, Lucia faced her share of challenges, however it is those challenges that developed her own abstract style. "One of the biggest challenges I faced was overcoming self-doubt," she admits. Without formal training, she often questioned the validity of her approach. Yet, it was through perseverance, continuous experimentation, and the support of her growing audience that Lucia found her style. "Over time, I started to notice that I had a good body of work," she reflects, adding that positive feedback from commissions and collectors fueled her confidence.

Lucia's artistic process is a blend of intention and spontaneity. She begins each piece with a planned color palette but allows the painting to evolve as she works. This organic flow is essential to her process, as it enables her to stay connected to the emotions and energy of the moment. The result is a piece that reflects both her original intention and the unexpected journey that unfolds during the act of creation.

Layers of Emotion and Meaning
Known for her use of layers, Lucia’s paintings evoke a sense of depth and complexity. "Each layer adds depth and complexity, much like the layers of our emotions and memories," she explains. By building up colors, textures, and forms, she creates pieces that feel alive, inviting the viewer to look deeper and discover something new each time. The layers symbolize the multifaceted nature of human experience, offering a visual narrative that is both bold and introspective.

Her work’s distinct style—an interplay of chaos and order—sets her apart in the contemporary abstract scene. Lucia uses color not just as a visual element, but as an emotional language. "I want to convey feelings of peace, joy, and positive energy," she says. Her compositions balance dynamic movement with structured forms, creating a sense of harmony that is uniquely hers.

Recognition and Future Aspirations
Lucia’s hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. Her art has been showcased in prominent venues in Guatemala, and she is represented by Salt Fine Art Gallery in Laguna Beach, California. These achievements have reinforced her belief in the power of her work. "They signify that my art resonates beyond personal boundaries, reaching an audience that feels the same joy and peace I do when creating," she shares.

Lucia spoke about her latest solo exhibition that happened in November 2024, titled "All That I Am." This show marked a milestone in her career, celebrating her evolution as an artist. “Each piece stood as a testament to the joy I’ve found in creating,” she says, reflecting on the significance of this event in her artistic journey. Additionally, she looks forward to participating in the Latente Art Expo and BADA Art Fair in Mexico in 2025, where she hopes to connect with new audiences and share her message of joy, peace, and emotional connection through art.

Art as Emotional Healing
At the core of Lucia’s artistic practice is emotional healing. Painting has been her sanctuary, helping her feel calm, present, and centered amidst the demands of life. "One of my deepest hopes is that viewers can sense the tranquility and joy I experience when I paint," she says. She envisions her art as a space where viewers can connect with their own emotions and find moments of peace and inspiration.

For Lucia, the act of creating art is not just about personal expression; it’s about sharing a universal message. Through her use of color, form, and texture, she aims to evoke emotions that resonate with others, offering a sense of comfort and connection. "If my art can inspire even a small sense of wonder or comfort, then I feel it has succeeded," she concludes.

As Lucia continues to explore new directions in her work, she remains committed to pushing the boundaries of her creativity. Whether through new materials, larger installations, or collaborations with other artists, she is excited to evolve and grow as an artist. "Artists need to be constantly evolving," she says, reflecting on her belief that creativity is a lifelong journey of exploration and discovery.