“I am obsessed with balloons, through them I want to bring more joy and beauty to the world”- Rosana Auque “Toti”

Rosana Auque “Toti”, italo-colombian artist, constantly immersed in the world of painting and daydreaming about it. Much like Degas immortalized ballet dancers, Giacometti sculpted his vision, and Botero embraced voluminous figures, Rosana finds her muse in painting balloons—a whimsical symbol of life. Toti has developed her own style and is setting a trend with her vivid representation of nature.

One of your major works is a reinterpretation of The Garden of Earthly Delights by Bosch. What made it inspire you so much?

Absolutely, it holds a top spot on my list of all-time favorite artworks. Whenever I’m in Madrid, you’ll find me at the El Prado Museum, drawn to its allure. What captivates me? The freedom it exudes, the unabashed embrace of the human condition, and the sheer unapologetic revelry in life. Aesthetically, the diverse scenes, the rich palette of colors, and the myriad cultural references create an irresistible charm.

In my reinterpretation of this masterpiece, my focus zeroes in on the positive facets, predominantly showcased in one of the three panels—the left one. Here, I delve into the purest and grandest virtues of the human race seamlessly entwined with the natural world. “The Playground,” my work, serves as a pause, a journey back to our origins, to the garden of Eden. Here, humanity consciously opts to relish this paradise sustainably and gracefully, aligning with the divine intent. It’s a joyful playground, adorned with elements that evoke happiness and echo the values I’m eager to share with my audience.

Who are other artists that you admire, even if they are not directly inspiring you?

Numerous artists serve as wellsprings of inspiration for me, each leaving an indelible mark. Currently I am reading a book written by Kandinsky, I find a profound connection to his perspective on art intertwining with the spiritual realm. His recognition of artistic creation as an intuitive and spontaneous expression directly stemming from the soul resonates deeply with me.

Impressionists like Monet, Renoir, and Degas hold a special place in my admiration spectrum. Their sensitivity to color and their ability to elevate nature captivate me. Then there’s Fernando Botero, a true reflection of our times and the essence of Colombia. His penchant for exaggerating shapes and materiality serves as a metaphor for the inherent abundance within our country, a quality I hold dear. Each of these artists, in their unique ways, contributes to the tapestry of my creative inspiration.

As Vasari recounted, Renaissance artists spent almost as much time procuring work as they did creating it. What is it like to be a young artist today?

When it comes to your creative process, how does it work in practice? I mean, art involves choices, such as colours, canvases, spaces and times in which it is created… can you tell us about it?

I am constantly inspired by ideas, even when I’m sleeping, I feel the urge to materialize. The intrigue of human connection, the melody of songs, and the intricacies of emotions fuel my fascination.

Before delving into the realm of painting, I engage in meditation, envisioning how higher forces guide the forthcoming creation. It’s crucial for me to dwell in a realm of security and tranquility, allowing ideas to flow effortlessly. The choice of canvas, shapes, and colors varies depending on the idea I aim to convey. Regardless of the subject, coherence and transmission of a meaningful essence are non-negotiable. Achieving this equilibrium between colors and shapes is my artistic alchemy.

My paintings, in essence, mirror my inner self, carrying messages of hope and a profound appreciation for beauty—a force I believe possesses the transformative power to unite and elevate us. The act of painting is a response to my innate desire to propagate beauty and grace, an artistic endeavor grounded in a sincere wish to inspire and uplift.

The balloon is a recurring theme in your work. Is it a form of escapism or what does it mean?

The balloon serves as a poignant reflection of our humanity—fragile yet unbounded. It whispers tales of the present moment, soaring towards destinations unknown. By entrusting its path and momentarily relinquishing control, we find calmness, a weightlessness that propels us to greater heights.

Initially conceived as a symbol of joy and innocence, my balloon has metamorphosed into a visual manifestation of values close to my heart. Throughout history, eminent artists grappled with existential questions, and for me, the balloon becomes the vessel to explore those profound queries of human existence—Why are we here? What is our purpose?

During an exhibition in Milan, a curious soul posed the question, “Are the balloons filled with helium?” My response echoed through the air, “No, they are filled with soul.”

See Also

Yellow: Beyond Van Gogh’s Colour

A balloon containing your soul: how do you do it?

It is completely intentional; we are all the very soul of my balloons. They represent the deepest feelings and connections between all of us.

Why do you define your collection of works as “eternal”?

I characterize my work as eternal, mirroring the timeless nature of art. While my physical presence is transient, the messages encapsulated within my balloons will endure, weaving a perpetual legacy. “Eternal” signifies that, regardless of the unfolding circumstances, truth and righteousness persist as prevailing forces, transcending any temporal or spatial constraints.

Art has a role to play in these troubled times, but what is it?

Art stands as one of humanity’s most profound gifts, a timeless medium employed across the ages to forge connections with the divine and spark revolutions. In our present era, riddled with challenges exacerbated by media and communication, the need for art has never been more pressing. It grants us the ability to craft myriad scenarios, fostering dreams of diverse possibilities. In times of uncertainty, art becomes a promise—a beacon illuminating the path toward brighter times, improved situations, and elevated standards.

What is your next project?

I have multiple upcoming projects. The highlight among them is my imminent move to Manhattan next month, where I aim to continue disseminating my art. The dynamic energy of the city consistently fuels my creativity in unexpected and boundary-pushing ways. Currently, I’m in talks with various galleries in both New York and Italy, and the dates for a couple of upcoming solo shows will soon be unveiled!

On a joyful note, I’m delighted to announce that the esteemed Gallery Pananti in Florence, Italy, has taken the initiative to represent my work. Established in 1968 by Piero Pananti and enriched by the active involvement of his son Filippo, Galleria Pananti stands as a hub for literary figures, collectors, art critics, and artists. Located in Florence, with an additional atelier in Milan, the gallery has hosted over 400 art exhibitions both locally and internationally, including in Switzerland, the United States, and France. Alongside its extensive exhibition program, Galleria Pananti has produced more than 500 publications, encompassing exhibition catalogs, monographs, fiction collections, essays, and poetry. The gallery also conducts auctions for modern and contemporary art. Its editorial and exhibition initiatives extend to collaborations with Italian and international municipalities and museums. Galleria Pananti has earned recognition from the President of the Italian Republic.