Artist in conversation: JO - TA

Jo-Ta is an interdisciplinary artist and multimedia creator with roots in La Paz, Bolivia. He currently splits his time between San Pietro di Feletto, Italy, and Berlin, Germany. Jo-Ta's conceptual focus revolves around individual emancipation, collective consciousness, and the environment. Drawing inspiration from his Andean heritage and intuition, he seamlessly integrates video projectors, speakers, and recycled materials like wood, metal, marble, and dichroic mirrors into his compositions. Through Video Jockey and Video Mapping techniques, Jo-Ta creates a mesmerizing fusion of images and sounds that transcends the boundaries between the real and digital realms.

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What initially inspired you to become an artist, and how did you develop your unique style?

The wellspring of inspiration, both then and now, emanates from sound, even in the midst of silence and the chaos. The evolution of my artistic style is intrinsically intertwined with my personality and my personality developed through intuition.

In terms of subject matter, what themes or motifs do you frequently explore in your work, and what draws you to these topics?

My artistic practice revolves around three interconnected themes: individual emancipation, collective dynamics, and respect for nature. I explore personal growth, societal influences, and our relationship with the natural world. Throughout my life, I have been fortunate enough to actively participate in diverse social and cultural contexts. This has led me to question the interplay between nature and the social and cultural codes of humanity.

Can you discuss a specific piece or project that challenged you as an artist, and how you overcome those challenges?

Finding myself in my art during this time of general change has been challenging but also enriching. About overcoming, trying to have mental health.

How do you stay connected with other artists and keep up with new developments and trends in the art world?

I talk to them, most of the people I want to talk to are interested in me and I'm interested in them. It's amazing to connect with someone.

How do you incorporate feedback from critics and audiences into your artistic practice, and how do you balance this feedback with your own artistic intuition?

Listening and observing to generate a common sense of the criticisms I receive and ideas develop on their own.

How do you stay motivated and inspired despite any setbacks or creative blocks you may encounter?

I had 4 years of Metamorphosis and the music of the 90’s.

Your body of work spans across different creative disciplines. How do you approach each project, and what creative processes do you implement to ensure a successful outcome?

I start with silence and determination, listen to music and then try to immerse myself in all the information regarding the idea and then brainstorm. Works are successful but not all are accepted.  

As a multifaceted artist, how do you balance your various creative pursuits, and how do they complement each other in your work?

Through testing and intuition to find for me the sweet spot.

How do you feel about exhibiting your artworks with The Holy Art Gallery?

It feels special and I'm very happy to do it.

Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals and aspirations as an artist, and how do you plan to achieve them?

Currently there is the task as Jo-Ta to relaunch a 20 year old Bolivian musical project of a friend of mine. And the other more difficult one is to generate a dialogue with the fireflies.

To achieve them, I have to just do it.