Q+A with UNLV MFA candidate Karla Lagunas about her installation at Omega Mart, a first-of-its-kind collab between Meow Wolf and UNLV College of Fine Arts.
Explorers might ask themselves, “What is Dramcorp up to now?” when they enter the newest space in HQ: D207. In a first-of-its-kind collaboration between Meow Wolf and the UNLV College of Fine Arts, artist and MFA candidate Karla Lagunas (an OG Omega Martian), sits down – well, she could’ve been standing – to answer a few questions about her inspiration and installation. The colorful space features an evolving tableau on the walls, floor and draperies that explorers are invited to move – creating an ever-changing work.
How does it feel coming back to Omega Mart as a Meow Wolf contributing artist?
It feels surreal to come back. My life has changed in so many wonderful ways since then, so a return puts so many things in perspective. I get to reflect a lot while painting, so it's been healing.
You’ve told us that the name “Meta-Telos III” is a bit tongue-in-cheek. Do tell…
I am aware that abstract expressionist painters could be perceived as either pretentious or embarrassingly sincere, often simultaneously. The fake Greek really drives that home. In English, the title basically means, "a self-referential aim." However, if you are a Spanish speaker as I am, it also means, "put them inside (you)." A vulgar joke, or maybe a sincere prompt to allow my audience to enter a space that is a representation of my interiority. I think my sense of humor allows me to be vulnerable under layers of masks.
Your colorful installation includes interactive components. Why did you want visitors to rearrange things?
Short of inviting them to paint with me, I wanted the audience to interact with painting in ways they might not otherwise be prompted to. Inviting touch might encourage guests to look a little longer, see a little more, and connect with mark-making. I added text to allow for more access points for meaning making. Many people don't think abstract painting is for them. Maybe if they see me reaching out to them, writing confessions or reflections, they can see what painting means for me - a way to connect with others I might not otherwise get to. I reach out and if they touch back, it closes that loop. [OM: How cool is that?!]
Why did you want visitors to see you at work?
I want visitors to see me at work because it feels vulnerable and it informs my painting. I am painting for an audience every step of the way. How will this inform my work? We will see!
Has your style evolved since working on this interactive installation? You’ve also included text in your art. What are you telling the viewer? What do you hope people will get from it? Whew. Go!
I am working outside of my regular palette, which is interesting. Text was always a part of my work, but now it is clearer to the viewer. I can't wait to see more evolutions!
What can fans of your art expect to see in your work moving forward?
I see myself getting wilder while painting as I become more confident in front of an audience. I also see areas getting more rendered and more representational as the layers build up and forms appear.
For those that want to see more, are there any new art exhibition links you can share with us?
No links, but I am building towards my MFA thesis next March!
Folks can check out more of your work at:
Instagram: @karlalagunasartist
Finally, just so we know - what’s your favorite band?
Right now? Big Thief.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your work or inspiration?
Art has always been the way I connect with others and discover myself. Throughout the turmoils of my life, art has always been a portal to new worlds, inner and outer. I am incredibly grateful to share this relationship with an audience wider than I could have ever imagined!
Lucky visitors will also encounter Karla working on the space Friday nights in August, with her last brushstroke on Saturday afternoon, September 14th.
