August Vilella is a self-taught Spanish painter born in 1986. He has garnered international acclaim for his distinctive “surreal-intuitive” method. Based in Tokyo, Vilella’s artworks have been exhibited globally, including in cities like Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Paris, Shanghai, Dubai, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Miami, Taipei, Oxford, Shenzhen, San Francisco, and Rotterdam.
“This piece symbolically and metaphorically captures the profound significance of sharing life’s most cherished moments. Just as cherry blossoms unfurl in the warmth of spring, joy blooms in the hearts of others when we choose to share it. Happiness isn’t meant to be hoarded; it flourishes only when given, cascading like petals in the wind and adorning the world with its ephemeral beauty. Happiness, love, and art are treasures that gain meaning through sharing.”
From Philosophy to Painting
Vilella’s artistic journey began in Reus, Spain, a city known for its rich artistic heritage. Initially, he pursued philosophy at the university while engaging in music and writing. Seeking a more direct form of expression, he turned to painting, discovering a medium that transcended language and cultural barriers. Without formal training, Vilella embraced oil painting as a conduit for his subconscious mind.
The Surreal-Intuitive Method
Central to Vilella’s approach is his “surreal-intuitive” method. He begins each painting without sketches or preconceived ideas, allowing his subconscious to guide the brush. This process results in artworks that evoke a dreamlike aura, filled with metaphorical and philosophical themes. His characters, often depicted with large, expressive eyes, serve as mirrors to the viewer’s soul, inviting personal interpretation.
Technical Mastery Meets Intuition
Despite the spontaneous nature of his creative process, Vilella’s technique is meticulous. He employs fine brushes to apply multiple thin layers of oil paint and varnish, creating depth and luminosity reminiscent of classical masters. This combination of intuitive creation and technical precision gives his work a unique and captivating quality.
Global Recognition and Exhibitions
Vilella’s art has garnered international acclaim, with exhibitions held in major cities worldwide. Notably, he received the Best Artist award at the Tokyo International Art Fair in 2016, the Best Innovative Art award at the Global Art Awards in Dubai in 2017, and the International Artist Grand Prize at Art Revolution Taipei in 2018. His works have been featured in prestigious publications such as “The Global Times,” “Hi-Fructose,” “Beautiful Bizarre,” “Vice,” and “Psikeart,” “Hypebeast”, highlighting his impressive development as a master of his genre.
Inclusion in Prestigious Collections
Vilella’s artworks have been acquired by notable institutions, including the Chan Liu Art Museum in China and the Tryson Collection in Switzerland reflecting his growing influence in the international art scene.augustvilella.com
Connecting with the Audience
Vilella believes that his paintings have a life of their own, stating, “I don’t choose my characters… in some way they choose me.” He encourages viewers to find their own meanings within his work, making each piece a personal experience. Through the eyes of his characters, viewers are invited to connect with their own emotions and subconscious, making his art a mirror reflecting the depths of the human soul.
August Vilella’s unique blend of intuitive creation and technical mastery has positioned him as a distinctive voice in contemporary art. His dreamlike paintings, rich with metaphor and emotion, transcend cultural boundaries and invite viewers into a profound dialogue with their own subconscious. As he continues to explore new themes and exhibit globally, Vilella’s art remains a testament to the power of intuition and the universality of human experience.
For more information and to view his portfolio, visit augustvilella.com.
