Erasmo Daaz Interview

Interview by Nardip Singh

We take a glimpse into the life and work of Erasmo Daaz, a multi-talented Artistic Painter, Bodypainter, Lightpainter, Photographer, President of Spanish Bodypainting Asociation and Member of the World Bodypainting Federation. 

Tell us how you started working with paint?

I was a regular canvas painter for the last ten years or so, working with my hands. Body painting was a natural transition as I looked for a new medium which used light and energy. I went to Austria, to the World Bodypainting festival, where I learnt a lot from the other artists. I also learnt through apprenticeships. I have been involved with this medium for three years now. I’ve tried to create my own unique spin on this art, creating a new form of body painting art using light. I think, in the future, a lot of people will be using such fluorescent and light reflective materials but that is very expensive.

How important is light in your recent works?

It is everything to me, light is like an inspiration. Not only the light but the reflection of it when you get another colour - it is my motivation. You need to keep that image in your head when painting.

Do you have a concept in your mind?

I have the colours and ideas in my head. I am not a drawer. I prefer to feel the energy when bodypainting and let my art take its form. You need a patient team, as sometimes it can take six hours to create a finished piece.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Everywhere. The colours of night are beautiful, how light reflects and interacts with darkness - illuminating it with energy. I love surrealist art: Salvador Dali, Luis Bunuel, Gaudi. Especially Dali I would say.

You haven't grown a moustache however?

No, I don't, but maybe in the future, you never know (laughs). I like to put hair on my head sometimes for a laugh though.

What would you describe energy as?

Even in this interview, I feel your energy. Energy is everything and I try to represent it in colours. It is the most creative aspect of me.
I prefer working and meeting people face to face. It helps me build rapport, visualise and interact. For example, if we had this
interview on Skype, I wouldn't be as open and descriptive.

Were you artistic when you were young?

I used to paint when I was young, but there was a large gap of maybe 15 years where I did little creative work. Ten years ago I woke up and have been on a creative rollercoaster ever since.
The last three years, in particular, have been very creative. In my family there are no artists, my parents don't understand my recent work, they have a more traditional view of art. I tell them, in art there is no right or wrong, time is not a factor. When you are in a creative moment you have to surrender to it.

In terms of choosing models and people for your work, do you have a set preference?

Not all models are ideal for bodypainting. I am not looking for very beautiful models but need models who want to represent my vision and makeup, expression is the key. For example, if you are painted gold, you need to feel you are gold. It's really difficult to get the right look. Sometimes I use regular people who will surprise me when they show more feeling than professional models. It's a collaboration to create art at the end of the day.

Could you describe the Yoga piece?  What does the colour purple represent?

It's about peace. Purple represents the karma, calmness and the lines are like feelings inside her.

What would the broken and continuous lines represent in Yoga?

They are like steps of energy, different levels of peace. There are continuous lines which go around the whole body, the energy lines if you like.

What do you plan to do in 2011? Any exhibitions?

I am trying to represent human beings from the future and am working on this current project with people. It may take several years to complete. I have exhibited in the past, but once the future project is complete, I will most likely have a large exhibition accompanied by live performances showcasing my works. Previous exhibitions can be viewed on my websites. Long-term, I hope to publish a book.