Artist Statement
Current military themes are the core of my 2-dimensional art works. My purpose is to take a piece of equipment and bring forward a personal military experience while I was in Afghanistan. This experience revolves around constant interaction with an object.
I choose a piece of military equipment and focus on specific parts of that object. These parts are replicated with accuracy but take on different form. My drive is the appreciation of an original object and creating a looser reality from what the object is.
In order to achieve my concept, I specifically use graphite pencil on paper to build on my own experience. The materials allow me to show what is remembered and what is lost.
About
Background
Justin Mendoza, originally from Chicago, IL, is a distinguished individual whose journey seamlessly weaves through the realms of education, military service, and the arts. Graduating from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, he earned a Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Painting, laying the foundation for his commitment art. Following this, Justin embarked on a path of military service, commissioning as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. His dedication to duty led him to transition into the U.S. Army, where he served with distinction overseas in Afghanistan, contributing to Operation Enduring Freedom. His military tenure spans over 12 years, marked by a commitment to excellence that has become synonymous with his character.
Following his military service, Justin’s drive to further his artistic mastery earned him a Master of Fine Arts from Boston University in Sculpture. Post-MFA, he delved into the world of acting, honing his craft at the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts. This venture opened doors to the world of film, where Justin's talents flourished as a cinematographer and developer, showcasing a variety of film projects. Transitioning into the film industry, Justin's trajectory soared from a Production Staff on a variety of broadcasted TV/Film productions.
Currently, Justin persists in his relentless pursuit of artistic ambition as he continues to evolve and contribute to the ever-expanding canvas of his creative endeavors in art and film.
Sculpture 1
Drawings
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Sculpture 2
