Meet John DeCastro | Fine Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with John DeCastro and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi John, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
My work-life balance has changed dramatically compared to when I was first starting art as a career. Especially that of my early twenties, obviously I had more endurance. I remember painting for longer hours and finishing more artwork than I did now. I also remember the seriousness I thought was necessary to become a fine artist. Today, I learned the seriousness wasn’t all that important! I’m working smarter, making sure my tasks are impactful and effective in getting my work out there. I also found that the mundane small things like inline skating and playing DDR (Dance Dance Revolution) helps me branch out of a cycle of always producing. The truth is, to make art, one must experience life! I think since I’ve started, I’m much less anxious about being a spectacular fine artist. I feel like I’ve accomplished so much since I started, and I’m more confident in myself.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is deeply rooted in my identity as a Queer Filipino-American. I’m fascinated by my ancestral indigenous traditions to Filipino fiber arts and textiles. My late uncle, Federico Aguilar Alcuaz, called his tapestries “Art Protis” a textile series of abstract works that he considered to be decorative. I love the lightness and bright colors of textiles and bring those same ideas into my practice with paper, grommets, fabric, and sewing. My paintings take different forms usually from thick line work, to abstract shapes, and South East Asian fictional landscapes. A commonality you’ll see in my work is the use of black paper and pastel colors. Having the privilege to visit museums in both the Philippines and Guam, has given me a greater understanding of my ancestral practices in the arts. I think what I purposely intend on doing through all my work is bridging traditions to the contemporary sphere of art. My focus is talking about my experiences as a queer Filipino American and what that can essentially inform and communicate to my community. In the past year, I was more focused on community work doing live paintings and vending handmade prints for different organizations such as Kumare Konnection and Kabataan Culture. Now, looking into showcasing with galleries again, and selling my handmade prints on my website. 

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

I think it depends on how I feel about the person and the vibe they give me! Are they eccentric and not fear judgements, or are they more introverted and prefer the indoors? First off, I would start with some caffeine like coffee or tea. Not Starbucks because we’re boycotting them and I’m not spending my time with people who aren’t doing the same. Afterwards then go to Burbank Towne Center and get something to eat, maybe Ramen or Mexican food. We’d then walk off our meal on the way to All Amusement Fun Center Arcade and play Step Maniax or a better version of DDR. Taking the escalator down to Round 1 and play Japanese rhythm games, possibly trying the crane for a kawaii squishy toy. Head out to the Brand Library & Art Center to check out the exhibitions they have open and check out the amazing contemporary art. For dinner, Eagle Rock plaza to enjoy some Jollibee or Chowking, and even get some snacks at Seafood City. Ending the night at Moonlight Rollerway in Glendale and skate the night away to some 80’s pop music.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a shout out to the people that have spent the time to get to know me and my art. The people who have an unconditional love for me and continue to support me in any way shape or form. This shout out is for the people who continue to be there for me and my purpose.

Website: www.johndecastro.com

Instagram: @decastronaut

Youtube: @johndecastrothes3cond

Other: TikTok: @decastronaut