Surfing the Waves of Creativity: In Conversation with bErto

Maddox Gallery is delighted to announce that bErto will feature in our group exhibition Connecting Outcomes, opening on 16 January 2025. Known for his evocative abstract works that intertwine nature, philosophy, and a spirit of experimentation, bErto has become a compelling figure in contemporary art. In an exclusive conversation with Maeve Doyle, Maddox Artistic Director, the artist delved into his creative journey, his inspirations, and the evolving relationship between his life and art.

Maeve Doyle: You’ve said that you’ve “always been an artist.” Can you tell us more about your early years in Miami and how your upbringing shaped your passion for creativity?

bErto: Growing up in South Miami was formative. My father introduced me to creative thinking, teaching me to draw and encouraging my interest in art from a young age. My mother worked tirelessly but made time to take me to the beach, where the vibrant colors of Miami’s landscape—pastel hues and Caribbean tones—left a lasting impression on me. Those beach trips and a revolving door of creative influences, from musicians to local characters, were like living art lessons.

Maeve: You’ve lived in culturally rich cities like Athens, London, Paris, and Milan. How have these experiences influenced your artistic vision?

bErto: Each city taught me something new. Moving around exposed me to different art forms, philosophies, and aesthetics. I absorbed as much as I could, whether it was visiting galleries or attending music shows. Berlin, for instance, was a place of personal exploration. Even a short stay, sparked by a relationship, became an education in absorbing culture and expanding my worldview.

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Maeve: Your abstract paintings often reveal intricate patterns inspired by nature. How do you translate your appreciation for the natural world into your work?

bErto: Nature is intrinsic to everything I do. I see myself as part of it, not separate. I often find myself drawn to its primal essence, and my work reflects that connection. For over a decade, I’ve engaged in spiritual practices, including participating in tribal ceremonies and psychedelics, which have deepened my understanding of our bond with the natural world. My art channels these experiences—it’s not calculated but flows naturally, like a reflection of life itself.

Maeve: Surfing seems to be a recurring theme in your life. How does it influence your art?

bErto: Surfing is more than a sport—it’s a philosophy. It keeps me grounded and resets my mind. When I’m in the water, nothing else exists. It’s pure presence, which is so important in art. You can’t create from a cluttered mind. Surfing brings me back to that state of flow, where things just happen naturally. That kind of focus and freedom mirrors my creative process. Both are about flow and connection, whether it’s with a wave or a blank canvas.

Maeve: Your work blends materials like acrylics, oils, and magazine paper. How do these enhance your storytelling?

bErto: Each medium brings something unique—transparency, texture, or vibrancy. I see them as tools to experiment and layer. My approach is intuitive; I play until something resonates. It’s never about perfection but about when the piece feels right. Recently, I’ve even started incorporating embroidery, which adds another tactile dimension to my work.

Maeve: You’ve been exploring paper as a significant element in your practice. What inspired this shift?

bErto: It started with a curiosity about collage and evolved into making my own paper. During the pandemic, I took a workshop in Montana to learn large-format papermaking. While the process was fascinating, its environmental impact—especially the water use—pushed me toward repurposing existing materials. Now, I source old books and recycled paper, integrating their textures into my work for added depth.

Maeve: Your murals can be found worldwide, from Australia to Senegal. How do you approach site-specific projects?

bErto: Murals are deeply physical and require a different energy than studio work. Initially, they were a gateway into the art world, but they also taught me to adapt to clients’ visions and logistical challenges. The interaction with local communities was the most rewarding part—watching them engage with the work and seeing it transform their spaces was incredible. However, I’ve shifted focus toward my studio practice now, finding a balance between large-scale projects and personal work.

Maeve: With international exhibitions ahead, what can audiences expect?

bErto: My focus is on continuing to evolve my practice. Moving to Lisbon is part of that journey—it offers a slower pace and an inspiring creative community. I’m not fixated on exhibitions but on making work that resonates with me. If it feels authentic, the rest will follow.

Maeve: What draws you to Lisbon?

bErto: Lisbon combines the things I love—surfing, a vibrant community, and a European lifestyle that values living over just working. It’s a place where time slows down, allowing space for reflection and creativity. I’m excited to see how this new chapter shapes my work.

This January, Maddox Gallery invites you to experience the transformative work of bErto at our group exhibition Connecting Outcomes, on view from 16th January 2025 at Maddox Berkeley Street. Don’t miss the chance to witness his unique vision up close. Register your interest today to learn more about bErto, his works, and upcoming projects.

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