ARTIST STATEMENT
My artistic practice is driven by a desire to explore identity topics and bring them into a universal arena. Rather than fixating on a singular subject matter, I see my self-experiences as the connecting thread that weaves through all my works, seeking to explore the intricate tapestry of human existence. Through my art, I also intend to delve into the construction and deconstruction of memory and understand how it shapes our individual and collective identities.
Nature has a constant presence in my work, both implicitly and explicitly. It acts as a backdrop, a source of inspiration, and a reflection of the human experience, at times even analysing its inherent connections to its psyche. Nature also holds a dual significance in my work, embodying both a reflective and contemplative aspect as well as a preservationist perspective. I believe in engaging with nature profoundly and thoughtfully, recognising our interconnectedness with the natural world.
In my video works, I establish a strong connection with the audiovisual language of cinema. I am interested in navigating the intersection between the realms of art and cinema, and in doing so, I create a language that blends elements from both disciplines. This fusion allows me to express my ideas and concepts in a unique and captivating way, bridging the gap between traditional artistic expression and the immersive nature of cinematic storytelling.
Photography plays a pivotal role in my artistic process. It mainly serves as a tool for documentation, capturing the essence of moments and experiences. I am keenly interested in employing photography to preserve and convey personal narratives. Furthermore, I have expanded my use of photography in recent years with projects where I explore a blend of traditional and analytical presentation techniques. These expanded photo works provide a multi-dimensional perspective, inviting viewers to seek deeper into the layers of meaning within the image.
Overall, my artistic practice aims to bridge the personal and the universal, to unravel the intricacies of memory, and to establish a profound connection with nature. Through my works, I invite viewers to embark on a contemplative exploration of the human experience. By delving into these themes, I strive to foster connections, spark dialogue, and inspire a deeper appreciation for the complexities of our existence.
BIO
Pako Quijada is a filmmaker, photographer and visual artist. They studied Photography and Filmmaking in Donostia-San Sebastián.
Their restless curiosity has taken them to an array of different projects and disciplines, with cinema as a constant inspiration. Whether it’s video editing and post-production of social media videos for clients such as MTV, National Geographic, Zeit Online, Auto1 and Huffington Post, or as a cinematographer for clients like Gestalten or Funke Medien Gruppe, they also pride themself on supporting fellow independent artists by creating full productions for contemporary art projects, dancers and choreographers and recording artists. Their first medium-length documentary as a writer and director followed the lives of stray cats in Barcelona and the organisation trying to provide a better life for them. The project was produced by the Televisió de Catalunya and broadcast on their network, with multiple reruns over the years.
Their true passion lies in storytelling and exploring its many possibilities. That’s why as a writer and director, they have created artistic projects that blur the line between video art, experimental and narrative cinema. In the past few years, they have strongly collaborated with Ecosia, the world’s leading green search engine, by supporting in short documentary form and directing multiple awareness and conversion video campaigns, culminating in a TV commercial in 2022 that was a finalist at the Sky Zero Footprint Fund in the UK. Their approach to filmmaking is traversed by an interest in sustainable practices and green production, and a commitment to help diversify the filmmaking space both in front and behind the camera.
As a visual artist, their interest lies in connecting identity topics and personal experiences by bringing them to a universal arena. Nature also plays a big role in their work, either through contemplativeness or a preservationist perspective. Their works have been included in exhibitions and festivals across the globe, including in Spain, Germany, the UK, the US, and Mexico.
They are a co-founder of two Berlin-based collectives: FUSSOFF, where they collaborate with musicians by bringing a visual component to their work, and Othergrounds, an artist-curator organisation that organises exhibitions with a special focus on environmental topics.
They are currently living and working between Berlin and Barcelona.