DERRICK VELASQUEZ

Untitled series is a mesmerizing fusion of marine vinyl strips artfully layered over a wooden sculpture. The accumulation of hundreds of layers results in a transformative effect as they begin to embrace the contours of the underlying wood. With this action, the ends of the vinyl strips gracefully curl, striking a delicate equilibrium between weight and lightness. The deliberate arrangement of colors is an ode to intentionality, an intricate dance choreographed by the artist's vision. Every layer of vinyl resembles a brushstroke, akin to the expressive strokes made by a painter on a canvas. Derrick's aptitude lies not only in his skill but in his ability to convey a symphony of emotions through this vibrant palette.

After experiencing the direct impact of climate change and medical turbulence within his circle, Derrick has been deeply touched at his core. Through the challenges, the outcomes have fostered stronger connections within his community and provided opportunities to understand nature on its changing journey. Velasquez states that “slowly building these sculptures becomes akin to layers upon layers of the experiences and connections we make inviting a perceptual encounter and a tactile experience.” 

Derrick Velasquez (b. 1982, Lodi, CA) received his BA from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and his MFA from Ohio State University. Velasquez has exhibited his works at the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, Denver, CO; the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art, Boulder, CO; Black Cube Nomadic Art Museum, Denver, CO; Herron School of Art and Design, Indianapolis, IN; Drexel University, Pearlstein Gallery, Philadelphia, PA; Center for Visual Art, Denver, CO; VAC University of Colorado, Boulder, CO; RedLine Contemporary Art Center, Denver, CO; FOCA Biennial, New Mexico Museum of Art, Santa Fe, NM; Arvada Center for the Arts, Arvada, CO; and more. He has been awarded by MacDowell Colony Fellow 2019; MassMoCA Assets for Artist Residency 2018 - 2019; Joan Mitchell Foundation Painters and Sculptors Grant 2017; Black Cube Nomadic Art Museum Artist Fellow 2015; Colorado Creative Industries Career Advancement Award 2015; and more. Derrick Velasquez is in the public collections of Temple University, Philadelphia, PA; Metropolitan State University of Denver; Miami University, Oxford, OH; Colorado Convention Center; etc. and in numerous private collections. Derrick Velasquez is represented by Pentimenti Gallery since 2012.

PAST EXHIBITIONS