Samuel Sarmiento's Artistic Exploration of Myth and Memory

Samuel Sarmiento, a self-taught artist from Venezuela, presents his U.S. debut exhibition titled “Relical Horn” at Andrew Edlin Gallery. His work utilizes clay to explore the rich tapestry of symbols and myths from his native Caribbean culture, creating kiln-fired ceramic sculptures that serve as vessels of memory and collective wisdom. Sarmiento's artistic practice is deeply rooted in the oral traditions and storytelling of the Caribbean, where ceramics have historically functioned as containers for essential resources. He recounts a myth about the origins of clay, illustrating its significance in human history as a medium for storage and preservation.

New York Observer

Sarmiento's ceramic pieces act as artifacts that encapsulate shared wisdom and mythical imagination, helping individuals navigate their existence within the cosmos. He references French writer Roger Caillois, who posited that natural elements like rocks harbor memory. Sarmiento emphasizes that his artistic process transforms clay—an element of the landscape—into symbolic forms that contain information, creating a refuge for cultural narratives. His work often features female figures, representing healing and protection, which are integral to the mythological narratives he portrays.

New York Observer

In his artistic approach, Sarmiento synthesizes diverse references, drawing connections between Caribbean myths and broader literary and artistic traditions. He cites influences from Jorge Luis Borges and Robert Smithson, alongside contemporary works like Jared Diamond's "Guns, Germs, and Steel." This synthesis allows him to recontextualize archetypal symbols, demonstrating that despite the variety of languages and authors throughout history, humanity's core stories remain consistent. His sculptures often exhibit geomorphic characteristics, resembling natural forms like coral, which further emphasizes the interconnectedness of culture and nature.

New York Observer

Sarmiento's creative process is characterized by a balance between intuition and control, where repetition plays a crucial role in developing complex languages within his work. He describes his practice as an intuitive reconnection with a shared subconscious, resulting in visual mythologies that transcend linguistic barriers. Despite being self-taught, Sarmiento's commitment to exploring ancestral narratives has shaped his unique artistic language, which seeks to communicate across cultural divides.

New York Observer

Through his art, Sarmiento advocates for a universal understanding of shared human experiences, aiming to protect and celebrate the cross-cultural heritage of stories and myths. He critiques the contemporary art world for often overlooking the contributions of Caribbean and South American artists, emphasizing the need for horizontal dialogue rather than tokenism. Sarmiento's work serves as a reminder of the collective fragility of humanity and the importance of reconnecting with ancestral wisdom to navigate future challenges.

New York Observer

• “One of the primary purposes of ceramics is containment,” — Samuel Sarmiento, Artist

New York Observer

• “Through this alchemy, an artwork can help humanity preserve what little wisdom we have left.” — Samuel Sarmiento, Artist

New York Observer

• “Never before have we lived in an age with more imaginary borders,” — Samuel Sarmiento, Artist

New York Observer

Samuel Sarmiento's exhibition not only showcases his artistic talent but also invites viewers to reflect on the deeper connections between culture, memory, and the human experience.

New York Observer