Why can’t people regard plants as native to them as more than one country? This line of inquiry is a massive exhibition held by Raul de Lara, who shows his surreal sculpture, which incorporates flora and furniture.
hostNow in the contemporary Austin observation, a collection of works that boil down to belonging and identity and reject the idea that the borders of state are fixed and natural. De Lara uses the wood identity of Texas and Mexico, carved the Monsteras of the mountains, the chains exuded long thorn-covered schooldesks, and the cactus of swinging horses disguised as children.
The final work translates what should be a common object (for example, a huge cluster of daisies in a shovel or a vase), which is a strange and incredible thing. Many works also become unusable, including the spiked ladders, and even the bravest ladders of us will climb without hesitation.
Now based in Ridgewood, Queens, De Lara grew up near Austin and was a Mexican immigrant as a kid. He first learned wood in his family’s shop, which he described as “a world in which every tool has its own language, and every piece of wood shows time in time and can communicate through their hands.” A strong belief in the spirituality of all things, luck and paranormal phenomena spread throughout this sacred space and taught the budding artist that he could use the energy of a particular material to create beautiful objects.
Today, he sees woodworking as a way of telling stories, and magical realism flourishes. “I welcome the idea that art can have its own spark of life and expand it to us,” Delara said.
When I do my work, I remember memories of my childhood, when I saw local sculptors turn into saints. I always want to know when
The carving process brings the ghost into that piece of wood. I work hard to create some kind of trust and acceptance that invites the audience to live without our field.
With the increasing global focus on immigration and human rights, Delara’s work is even more important. The artist has a DACA status and is aware of the lasting and rapid changes brought about by the new government.
Paint, 72 x 24 x 50 inches
His sculptures capture a sense of whimsy and drama, which seems to be the opposite of this reality, but for De Lara, woodworking and traditional craftsmanship are more extensive and superpowers. He said: “Since it has nothing to do with the place, politics or law, it cannot be taken from you.
look host Until January 11, 2026. Keep up with De Lara’s work on Instagram.
