Newsletter #012
Updated: Oct 30, 2024
Hey, Everyone!
After a couple weeks without writing a newsletter, it is finally time for another one. The reason for the wait is simple: a lot of Work. Mostly working on the new book, which we shall talk about in a bit, and also other interesting things that are currently moving forward. I am seriously considering doing this by-weekly instead though... we'll see.

First off, the elephant in the room. The new book "7531" is scheduled for release this Thursday, October 31st. The book is comprised of eight short stories, independent from each other to a degree. It comes with 35 digital illustrations that really drive the point forward. These images are now available for your viewing pleasure right here.
This book has been in the chambers for like 3 years From conceptualization to intellectual creation and materialization, this has been a long and difficult ride. It is certainly an achievement, and in some ways a late birthday gift to myself.
The subtitle of the book is quite direct in representing the main theme of the stories within it. The stages of grief are a difficult subject that I have dealt with personally on many occasions. It is from the need to really manage those feeling that these tales are born. This project is the cherry on my healing pie.

In other news, the International Book Fair Santo Domingo 2024 is approaching and I have the wonderful honor of participating in various ways. First off, on November 11th I'll be presenting "Gaia 0" to an audience of literature enthusiast, editors, colleagues and madness lovers like yourselves. Get ready for a detailed exploration of the story, for I'll be taking a deep dive into how this world came to be and where it's headed. A wonderful opportunity for all those of you curious about what this Epic Saga has to offer.
The presentation will be 15 minutes long, so kind of like a Ted Talk of sorts. I will be preparing the whole thing in that style, and I am sure to capture the attention and curiosity of those who show for it. I hope I can record the whole thing so to upload it for all of you to enjoy, but I still encourage you to be there. Nothing like the real thing, am I right?

Later that same week, on Friday the 15th, I'll be at the National Museum of Modern Art all day, with all my books, signing and talking to those interested in chatting and those who come with inquiries. I will also bring a few illustrations for y'all to see.
If you have any questions regarding any of my books or my work in general, I'll be happy to answer them all for you then and there. This is a unique opportunity since I don't tend to go out much. Hermit life I guess, hahaha.
It should be noted that I am doing all I can to have copies of "7531" available that day as well. Considering it is my latest book, it would be foolish of me not to do all in my power to have it there as well. So, I hope to see you there!
And now...
The Shared Madness
As we reach the end of the month, most of the activities available have been already running for a few weeks now. But that's not an impediment to theMadness being shared.
Events

Adela Dore, Digno Roa, Patricia Encarnación and Torrijo Galeano
"Interés Común"
S/Cavoli
Santo Domingo, DR
For those interested and curious to know what the local art scene looks like, four excellent representatives of the artistic community are here to fill that void in your lives. Their individual styles versus the common goals and the curation work of Luis Graham make this show a must see. Definitely recommended for all you art enthusiasts and Madness Lovers.
Open until December 18th.

Ileana Montero
"Los Legados del Abuelo Johnny"
DCEX-2406 Amsterdam Av, 4th floor
New York, US
For our dear diaspora in the big apple, this one is for you. The author Ileana Montero will be presenting her book, illustrated by the wonderful TaÃna Almodóvar, with the help and detail from the Dominican Writers Association. The book is about Dominican legend Johnny Ventura, and alongside the author, Josefina Ventura (his widow) will also join the panel of speakers.
Opens Monday, October 28th, at 4:00PM.

Colectivo Modafoca
"La Madera Era / El Tejido Ido"
Lucy GarcÃa Gallery
Santo Domingo, DR
This show is an exploration of the customs of the island as a societal nation. A manifestation from the study of our ancestors and their craft and skills in contrast to the market's industrialization. A very interesting, modern and graphic representation of many aspects of our ancestry as island people.
Open until November 10th.
Newsletter Highlight
Marocha Arredondo
Dominican artist living in the Netherlands.

Time to enjoy the colorful, energetic and lively illustrations of my dear colleague, Marocha. Her work has evolved to such levels and places of experimentation that it is easy to be drawn to it. Focusing her energy in paintings, illustrations and even beautiful works of ceramic, she has really taken her skills to a new level.
As a visual artist, she has extended her grasp far enough to really be respected in her field. So much so that her work can be found in some AAA video games out there. She is that versatile.

And talking about versatility, I personally love her experiments with expressionism such as this wonderful pieces, where she takes a very well known element of the Dominican culture and represents it with very well thought brushed square spots. Her version of the faceless ladies is without a doubt an achievement in skill and interpretation. Her signature pastels are what bring this piece to light as unique, really making it her own.

Now don't be fooled by the brightness, since she has proven that it's not all about a broad pallet, and that sometimes one single color and its shades can bring any canvas to life. Here we see her in action, as she works on a piece that really connects with me for various reasons. She called this beauty "Acceptance, the Last Stage of Grief". I bet y'all can guess why I'm drawn to it.

As a fan that I can be considered, I must admit that her illustrations are inspiring. Her process is constantly improving thanks to her dedication and love for the craft. One thing I really enjoy is seeing her sketches become pieces, for I give much importance to the conceptualization of a project, and she excels in it. Her constant search for what her mind interprets as beautiful is admirable. In this small canvas we can see how her use of bright pastel colors brings the composition to a fantastical world I'm sure many, myself included, would love to live in.

Lastly, I'd like to bring to your attention these beautiful ceramic pieces. The clay, while brown in color, still reflects her style very well. It should be noted that her exploration with clay extends from the decorative into the functional. But even then she brings a particular love to it that really sets it apart from other similar artists. Don't be surprised by the range of her skills, for she is a worthy representative of the Madness within.
Go show her some love on Instagram @por.maro.
That is all for this newsletter, share it with your friends and family. Have a wonderful week, remember to join theFamily if you haven't yet and, to continue growing the community, we also have The Madness Broadcasted on Instagram with some exclusive interactions and first-looks at the things we have cooking. Never forget to embrace #theMadness in you!
Irie bless!
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