Who would have thought that I would be painting while listening to a politician speak? How could anyone find a politician’s voice inspiring? Well, it wasn't just any politician; it was Bukele, the current president of my country, El Salvador. He hosted a "Live" session tonight, where he took questions from random people.
(I was secretly, hoping he would call me as I submitted my request for a question, without knowing what I was going to ask or say. I just wanted the opportunity to personally express my gratitude for the work he has done and continues to do in our country. To tell him how much he has inspired me through his actions, speeches, and more)
What is interesting, is that I had struggled with this painting for a long time, losing my way many times. However, I persevered, seeking a way to reconcile the lack of inspiration with the need to finish the painting. It never worked.
I had to do something different, something unexpected and risky to untangle the process.
Well, it happened today while listening to Bukele and hearing how people from my country are genuinely grateful and emotional about all the positive changes of our country.
We had lost all hope. Our country was so battered, so poor, so dangerous…to witness our country resurface, making a complete 180-degree turn from being demoralized to being absolutely inspired and proud again, was something we never expected. All thanks to this man: Nayib Bukele “Un hombre en todo el sentido de la palabra”
It was an inspiring evening and a moment of joy to paint while listening to Mi Presidente!
Another gem for the collection.
This painting is named Cuzcatlán, which is the original indigenous name of my country, El Salvador, meaning the "Land of Jewels."
Jewels aren’t born; they are made. They result from explosions of molten rock, slowly crystallizing from hot fluids and gases as they cool and solidify, ultimately transforming into beautiful, shiny precious stones, just like my country.