Q&A [Question and Artist]: Gemma Fenol

Meet multidisciplinary artist Gemma Fenol! Gemma’s sculpture “Arquitectura No. 15 - Leads Nowhere” is currently on view during the 39th Annual Made in California until June 23, 2024. She was gracious enough to share some behind the scenes insights into her vibrant work!

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[Brea Gallery]: Thank you, Gemma, for your time! Can you tell us about yourself?

[Gemma]: I'm originally from Barcelona but have been living in LA for over 10 years. I came here to study and fell in love with the city and its culture. I work as a set and experiential designer and feel fortunate to love what I do.

I started creating art at a very early age and have done projects in Milan and other European cities. My art was also selected at UCLA, where I graduated and participated in their annual exhibition of outstanding alumni. Having my project chosen among my peers as their brand identity for the year gave me the courage to pursue my personal art alongside my professional work.

My creations inhabit their surroundings with purpose, constructing landscapes that invite viewers to explore various themes and embark on their own creative journeys. My art often delves into the past and future while probing the depths of internal emotions within the context of modern life. In today's rapidly evolving technological era, there's a poignant necessity to anchor ourselves in our origins and true selves as we navigate the ever-changing landscape.

[Brea Gallery]: How and why did you become an artist?

[Gemma]: I've never been great at communicating with words. As a kid, I would often say, "let me show you," and then grab a pen and paper to explain things visually. Artists have the ability to tell stories that people can see and feel through shapes, colors, and space. That's why I became an artist—just trying to find my own way.

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[Brea Gallery]: Where do you find inspiration?

[Gemma]: Lately, I've been inspired by watching my two-year-old daughter explore the world. As an artist, my goal has always been to use visuals to communicate emotions and question topics I'm interested in. Seeing how differently children perceive and understand things is refreshing and enlightening.

I've always believed that everyday life events are crucial to discuss and use for change. Culture, society, politics, and the wellbeing of our planet are all interconnected. Art helps us understand complex topics visually, breaking them down into simple, digestible ideas. Observing my daughter's understanding of the world has definitely influenced my approach, making my art more authentic and grounded.

[Brea Gallery]: You have a creative day job; how do you balance that work with your fine art? 

[Gemma]: I'm fortunate that my job allows me plenty of time to focus on my own art and creative projects. This creative outlet is essential for my success at work, one cannot thrive without the other. The inspiration I draw from my art fuels my professional achievements, and my professional success provides the knowledge I need to create my own art. 

[Brea Gallery]: What does your process look like when you are designing your Arquitectura Series and your Paper Sculptures?

[Gemma]: In my work, I spend a lot of time thinking, figuring things out, and ensuring the design reflects specific aspects of the brand. As an artist, I apply the same principles to myself, but I focus more on feeling rather than logic. This approach is actually much more challenging than working within given parameters because it requires me to stop thinking and just feel.

I start by looking for images that match my current mood, exploring shapes and colors that resonate with me. I use these feelings and visuals as a foundation to create my own work. Once I have something I really like, I begin by making a sculpture out of paper. Sometimes, I also use other materials; right now, I'm working with biomaterials made from algae and eggshells.

[Brea Gallery]: Who are some of your favorite artists?

[Gemma]: This one is hard to pinpoint. While I do have a few favorites, I always return to, I have a morning ritual where I open a book—I'm currently reading "Wasted" showcasing artists working with biomaterials—select a page, research the artist, take notes, and print a couple of images that I consolidate on a notebook. This keeps me constantly fascinated by different artists. However, if I had to choose a few favorites, I'd say I love Richard's Serra work and his vision of art, particularly how interactive his sculptures are. I also admire La Fura dels Baus, a theater organization that uses set design as a medium in their performances. Lastly, I am captivated by Es Devlin and Bureau Betak; their monumental sculptures and installations, as well as their use of materials, technology, and space, are truly amazing to me.

[Brea Gallery]: What is your next big goal for your art career?

[Gemma]: My artistic career has been very organic, and I trust the process. I've always admired Desert X, its ideology, and the work that the artists do there. I love how it showcases culture and the environment, creating a gallery outside the traditional gallery space. I would love to be a part of that one day.

[Brea Gallery]: What advice do you have for emerging artists? What would you say to someone who is considering submitting artwork for MICA (Made in California) next year?

[Gemma]: We live in a society where many people are trying to get their ideas out into the world. the advice I would give to myself looking back would be to not let the environment, internet, or social media guide your art. Stay true to yourself. I see a huge difference between my early work, when I was worried if others would like it, and my later work, when I started creating for myself and truly feeling the art.

MICA is a great platform for artists who want to showcase their work through a reliable and respected entity in the art industry. It's challenging to be taken seriously as an artist or to avoid getting lost in the vastness of the internet and social media. Platforms like MICA not only help you stand out but also connect you with fellow artists and add credibility to your work.

[Brea Gallery]: Where else can people see your work and what's coming up next?

[Gemma]: Next up is an exhibition at the CICA Museum in Korea this October. I was fortunate to have my paper sculptures selected, and I am really looking forward to showcasing my work in other countries and seeing how people there perceive it.

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A very special thank you to Gemma for sharing your work with us! We are so Inspired! Please visit www.gemmafenol.com to see even more of Gemma’s commercial and fine art work, and give her a follow on Instagram @papersculpture_.

There are only a few weeks left to view the 39th Annual Made in California! Be sure to stop by before June 23rd to catch the work of over 100 California-based artists.

We are open Wednesday - Sunday

12pm-5pm

General Admission $3

Made in California 2024 is on display now through June 23rd