Alejandro Jodorowsky: The Immortal Artist

Alejandro Jodorowsky, born in Tocopilla, Chile, in 1929, is a prolific artist whose career spans film, theater, literature, and psychotherapeutic practices. At 96, he reflects on a life filled with diverse experiences, claiming to have lived "100 different lives." His latest project, *Art Sin Fin*, is a two-volume monograph that serves as both a retrospective of his work and a manifesto of his artistic philosophy. The book, curated by Donatien Grau of the Musée du Louvre, encapsulates Jodorowsky's unique blend of surrealism, humor, and profound themes of life and death.

Alejandro Jodorowsky, the immortal artist: ‘I’ve been thinking about death since the day I was born’

Raised in a modest household, Jodorowsky's artistic inclinations emerged early. He moved to Santiago and later to Paris, where he studied mime under Marcel Marceau. His debut feature, *Fando y Lis*, premiered in 1967, igniting controversy and riots. Jodorowsky's subsequent films, including the cult classics *El Topo* and *The Holy Mountain*, solidified his status as a pioneer of the midnight movie genre. He describes *El Topo* as "not a western, it’s an eastern," illustrating his philosophical approach to storytelling.

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A significant aspect of Jodorowsky's work is his development of "psychomagic," a therapeutic practice that combines elements of shamanism, tarot, and psychoanalysis. He believes this method can resolve psychological conflicts and promote healing. Jodorowsky's interpretation of the Tarot de Marseille, created in collaboration with Philippe Camoin, is described as an "alphabet of the soul," emphasizing self-discovery and psychological healing.

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The death of his son Teo from an overdose profoundly impacted Jodorowsky, prompting him to explore themes of loss and healing through his art. This personal tragedy is reflected in his collaborative works with his wife, Pascale Montandon, under the pseudonym PascALEjandro, where they create vibrant watercolors that blend their artistic visions.

The Guardian

Jodorowsky's philosophical musings often oscillate between humor and depth. He expresses a desire for more time to continue his creative endeavors, stating, "I want to live 15 more years to continue doing what I’m doing." He embraces the concept of death, viewing it as a natural part of life, and insists that contemplating mortality enriches the human experience. His work continues to inspire and provoke thought, challenging audiences to engage with the complexities of existence.

The Guardian

In discussing his artistic philosophy, Jodorowsky asserts, "I am an artist, not a teacher," emphasizing that his work lacks a singular moral message. He advocates for free access to art and healing, stating, "Food should be free. Art should be free."

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• “But I am not mad. I am only trying to save my soul.” — Alejandro Jodorowsky

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• “I’ve thought about it since the day I was born. It doesn’t scare me. If we don’t think about death, we aren’t living,” — Alejandro Jodorowsky

Alejandro Jodorowsky, the immortal artist: ‘I’ve been thinking about death since the day I was born’

• “Listen. There are 8 million people who are waiting for my help.” — Alejandro Jodorowsky

The Guardian

Jodorowsky's enduring legacy as a multifaceted artist and thinker continues to resonate, inviting new generations to explore the depths of creativity and the human experience.

The Guardian