In this episode of Lattes & Art, host James William Moore sits down with John Joseph Contreras Romero, a sculptor and educator whose art explores the intersections of violence, trauma, and healing. With a BA in Art and a Minor in Education from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and an MFA in Spatial Arts from San José State University, John brings a nuanced perspective shaped by his experiences as a veteran of the Afghanistan war, a first-generation college graduate, and the son of immigrants. Through creative investigations in trauma, memory, and loss, John discusses how art has become a tool for healing—both for himself and his audience. Join us as we explore the ways art can foster resilience, process difficult emotions, and spark conversations around critical social issues.

Photo Credit: Jose Rojas (@josenotjordan)

John Contreras's Deets:
Instagram: @john_contreras_art
Website: https://www.johnjcontreras.com/?
Gallery Rep: Madsen
https://www.apmadsen.com/?

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J-Squared Aterlier (J2Atelier)
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This episode takes a critical look at Banksy's latest works around London, sparking a debate about the very nature of graffiti art. Is Banksy’s Street art just a form of clever vandalism, or does it deserve to be classified alongside traditional fine art? We’ll explore the evolving perceptions of street art and its acceptance (or rejection) by the mainstream art world. we’ll question whether Banksy’s rise to fame is a result of his artistic genius or simply clever marketing and media hype. This episode aims to unravel the complexities of what constitutes art today and whether Banksy’s work has a lasting impact or is just a fleeting trend.

To find out more about Laasha Young's work, you can check it out here:
Website: https://www.laamshayoung.net/
Instagram: @younglaamsha

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Follow & Subscribe to Lattes & Art
Stay inspired with new episodes every week! Don’t miss out on deep conversations with artists, curators, and creators exploring the vibrant world of contemporary art.

Connect with Us:

J-Squared Aterlier (J2Atelier)
🌐 Website: J2 Atelier
📸 Instagram: @J2Atelier
James William Moore
🌐 Website: James William Moore
📸 Instagram: @the_jwmartist

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This episode dives into the creative process, uncovering how an artist approaches their work from the initial spark of inspiration to the final execution. We’ll explore the unique routines, rituals, and methodologies that Roston Johnson uses to transform ideas into tangible creations. Through a conversation with Roston, we’ll learn about his mental, emotional, and technical aspects of his creative journey. This episode aims to demystify the often-misunderstood process of creation, revealing the diverse ways artists cultivate inspiration, navigate creative blocks, and bring their visions to life.

Guest: Roston Johnson
@RostonLikeBoston
Photo Credit: James Erin de Jauregui
@dejauregui

Send us a text

Follow & Subscribe to Lattes & Art
Stay inspired with new episodes every week! Don’t miss out on deep conversations with artists, curators, and creators exploring the vibrant world of contemporary art.

Connect with Us:

J-Squared Aterlier (J2Atelier)
🌐 Website: J2 Atelier
📸 Instagram: @J2Atelier
James William Moore
🌐 Website: James William Moore
📸 Instagram: @the_jwmartist

Leave a Review:
Love what you hear? Help us grow by leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform! Your feedback keeps us inspired. 🎙️☕