Erich Mancha
Colours of Tradition

Erich Mancha Colours of tradition

 

A multidimensional contemporary artist and painter, Eric Mancha draws upon his cross-cultural experiences as a first-generation Mexican American to blend American and Chicano traditions, cultures, and imagery.

Born in the small Texan city of Eagle Pass on the border of Mexico and a Native American reservation, Mancha was uniquely positioned to absorb the intermingling of cultures, as well as the beauty and conflicts that arise from it. In 2003, after graduating from high school in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Mancha relocated from Texas to Los Angeles and pursued studies at the Gnomon School of Visual Design, where he obtained his BFA in digital production to kickstart his film career. This period was also pivotal for the development of the artist's style.

During a 2021 interview with Shoutout LA, Mancha revealed that he viewed his early period, characterized by collages and abstract forms, as an experimentation in expression. According to Mancha, "I was attempting to piece together the experience of the Latinx communities in the US by collaging different found objects like flyers and posters, and using color and gesture to bring that vibe to life."

Eric Macha Eric Mancha
Anatomy of the Avenue Painting, 2020
Oil on canvas
152.4 x 182.9 x 7.6 cm

However, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the artist had a realization that, in a time of chaos, he desired his art to convey a focus on detail, precision, and clarity. Influenced by a photo shoot conducted by Enrique Leyva for a feature in Vogue Mexico, he embarked on creating pieces that were evidently inspired by photography. Examples of such works include "La Mujer Del Itsmo," "La Canela Se Mueve," and "American Dream."

Erich Mancha Colours of tradition
Eric Mancha
American Dream Painting, 2020
Oil on canvas
152.4 x 182.9 x 7.6 cm

Erich Mancha Colours of tradition
Eric Mancha
La Mujer Del Itsmo,2020
Oil on canvas
152.4 x 182.9 x 3.8 cm

Erich Mancha Colours of tradition
Eric Mancha
Tres Flores, 2022
Oil on linen

"I am passionate about the art of storytelling, particularly how color can be used to express emotion and create a sense of space." In my works, the subjects are often aware of being observed and meet the gaze of the viewers. They are depicted wearing vibrant traditional or urban clothing, meticulously rendered to weave a narrative.

"My intention is for my artwork to serve as a conduit that immerses you in a specific moment or place from your own life. I want it to evoke memories of your grandmother's kitchen, the nostalgic scent that wafted through the air when you were a child, or even the type of hair gel you used before heading out for the weekend. By sharing these stories, memories, and cultural nuances, I aim to engage not only our own community but the world at large. My hope is to spark a dialogue and continue the exploration of identity and cultural diversity."

The Theodore & C team would be thrilled to assist you in incorporating a vibrant creation by Eric Mancha into your art collection. For further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Erich Mancha Colours of tradition
Eric Mancha
El Pino, 2022
Oil on linen