As a first generation American raised in Newark, New Jersey, Rivas’ artwork is enriched with tales of family members & he is concerned with the concepts of legacy, preserving the narratives of lost loved ones, & documenting his upbringing.

His paintings occupy space like sculpture, juxtaposing unexpected objects, many sourced from his childhood, against one another. His brush strokes and rubs of charcoal are expressive marks that add to the visual collage.

Each painting celebrates the Latinx concept of family and community through the lens of his Salvadoran roots.

❕ John Rivas GODA collection was inspired by David Hockney’s IPad paintings which are a result of an artist’s dedication to experimentation and pushing boundaries.

Firmly grounded in his Salvadoran roots @JohnRivasStudio believes in the artist’s responsibility to preserve culture and utilize their work as a tool to provide new perspectives to those who are able to experience it. #ElipadCipote

Process 🖼

AS·SEM·BLAGE /əˈsemblij/ - A work of art made from combinations of materials often scavenged or specially purchased by the artist John Rivas

“My main inspiration is people. It’s people. It’s conversations. Just being in the present moment.” John Rivas

There’s more to this ART thing than jpegs you know 👀 Take some time this month to touch grass and check out some of the IRL exhibits opening this month from 🔥 artists around the world, including GODA alums Nina Chanel Abney & John Rivas #TheGoda

John Rivas #LoveLetterToLA superpositiongallery.com/exhibitions

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Work in Progress

I finally got around to creating a loft with ᴏɴᴄʏʙᴇʀ, and visiting so many others has been incredibly fun. I'd love to check out more. Maybe sign a guestbook or two. Live on the wild side, you know?😆 oncyber.io/daylatebucksho…

day late buck short Deadly Prey Gallery LOU • holaloumx.eth Gavin Meeler John Rivas 🤌

Artists: It isn’t how many pieces you make, it’s how much you put into each piece.

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Congrats on the show John Rivas! Gracias por las Pinturas de mi Hijo, 2022