Miguel Reyes

Artist Statement: My work is rooted in memory—of childhood walks through the countryside, of climbing the mountains of Guanajuato with my father, and later, of discovering hidden pockets of nature within the city. These places became sanctuaries for drawing, painting, and contemplation, revealing to me how urban green spaces not only connect us with nature but also with our own inner worlds. I explore the relationship between people and nature in the city—how individuals interact with parks and other green spaces, shaping and being shaped by these landscapes. My paintings capture fleeting impressions of these moments: the contrast of light and shadow, reflections in water, the resilience of a tree struck by lightning, or figures immersed in daily activities. These characters, often depicted in a reduced scale, emphasize the vastness and atmosphere of nature, highlighting its presence within the urban environment. I primarily work with oil on panel or canvas, using loose, impressionistic brushstrokes that create a sense of movement and atmosphere. My work draws inspiration from the detailed compositions of the Dutch painters of the 1700s, blending their meticulous approach with the spontaneity of Impressionism to depict contemporary urban life. At its core, my work invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences with nature in the city, encouraging them to find moments of connection, solitude, and wonder within these shared spaces.