Diogo Menezes, also representing is view as ÉLEV:O, is a Portuguese Designer and Artist. Currently living in Portugal and working in an Architecture studio, he’s always exploring anything that explores his creativity.
How did you get into art?
As a design student by accident (I was interested in doing furniture design and ended up studying Interior Design in ESAD Matosinhos, in Portugal), knowing art was new for me at that time and it was something that grown naturally as a student. Doing some galleries visiting helped to grow the interest on some artists and painting styles. But it was not a long time ago that I’ve decided that my place needed a new set of painting and I was curious to explore some things (like working with plaster and gesso). Then, some friends came to my home for dinner and coffee, really liked the paintings and asked me to do one for them. I did and then the word started to spread around other friends and I was really enjoying doing that, it was a cool way to get out of my comfort zone and here we are!
How would you describe your style? What makes your work special?
As an abstract artist, my work serves as a reflection of the complexities and contradictions inherent in society. My work is a visual exploration of the tensions and contradictions that define contemporary society, inviting viewers to question, reflect, and engage with the world around them. I only use three colors: white, black and orange.
How do you go about developing your work?
It always depends if it’s a commissioned work or not. But usually, I already have something on my mind and then I go and try to replicate that. Sometimes it works, other not, but it’s a trial-and-error experience. But hey, that’s the fun part! I’m also trying to draw a lot more my ideas on paper, even sometimes adding oil or soft pastels to see what works or not. Usually, I use the same tools but, depending on the effect that I want, there’s always something new to try!
Who or what influences you?
The society in general. I often see myself watching what other people are doing trying to imagine what’s on their minds, trying to figure out what was the core idea/motif that led them doing that.
When it comes to art style, there are a lot of artists doing incredible things with the materials that I use and that’s always a way to inspire me!
Make us curious. What are you planning to do next?
I have some ideas in my mind that I REALLY need to added them on paper before I forget, but it’s can always change. I don’t really like to have everything planned as I prefer to go with the flow!
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