Fidencio Duran
Cracklings, 2020, Oil/canvas, 12 x 24 in.
Describe your artistic style in three words.
Narrative, cultural, psychological.
What's inspiring you right now?
The last two years I served as Principal Artist for the new Montopolis Recreation and Community Center and as Centennial Painter for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, I installed a 9' x 33' mural in the Center's gymnasium. I painted two images based on LBJ and Lockhart State Parks. The images will be published and auctioned as part of the Centennial of the State Parks System. I also produced a few easel paintings after my most recent solo exhibit at Foltz Fine Art, An American History. I am inspired to practice my work as a vehicle for a greater appreciation of diverse American culture.
What do you do when you're feeling uninspired?
I've always made a point of setting aside a space for my studio. I've kept sketchbooks since my teenage years; these drawings and sketches serve as great sources for my paintings. When time is scarce I may only work for an hour per day. Sometimes, I only have time to sit and contemplate ideas, but this is enough to keep my art practice alive. If I feel uninspired I reflect on past achievements and the people that have supported my efforts.
Tell us something unique about your process.
My works develop from graphite conceptual drawings. The works progress with aid from digital references and model poses. They serve well for greater detail and use of shadows. Some arrangements become larger as the concepts develop, by simply adding another sheet of paper. I like to make further studies of model poses with graphite and paint using my laptop. I use all my Photoshop skills to document, crop, and enhance my works. I transfer a composition to canvas with an under painting in sepia tones. It is further developed with full color. I prefer to focus on a single work at a time, though it may take several weeks to complete.
What advice do you have for other artists?
I advise other artists to maintain good studio practice. Discipline and application are necessary for facility with any medium or approach. Instead of waiting around for inspiration, I place myself in an environment conducive to application and contemplation of my artwork.
End of Summer, 2019, Oil, canvas, 30 x 30 in.
Sirens, 2019, Oil, canvas, 24 x 30 in.
Contraband, 2018, Acrylic, canvas, 12 x 12 in.
Tenant Farmer, 2017, Acrylic, canvas, 30 x 30 in.
Schoolboy, 2018, Acrylic, canvas, 12 x 12 in.
Beekeepers, 2017, Acrylic, canvas, 12 x 36 in.
Fable of the Sticks, 2017, Acrylic, canvas, 24 x 30 in.
Slingshots, 2016, Oil, canvas, 24 x 30 in.
Nights of Wonder, 2012, Acrylic, canvas, 30 x 30 in.
Fidencio Duran tells visual stories that honor the history of his family and community. One of his most prominent works, The Visit graces the length of the west ticket counter at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Duran received all three Dallas Museum of Art's Awards to Artists.