Alex Rocca

A. E. Köchert

Tapestry maker

©)Anderson Angelico

Letting the work flow from within

Alex’s works are a visual reflection of his perception of the world
He inherited his love of textile sculpting from the women in his family
To him, finding poetry within his craft was a process as important as refining his technique

The power of living and the constant search for artistic freedom are the fuel for Alex Rocca to produce his tapestries. All of his pieces are strongly inspired by his experiences within various spheres, such as cinema, scenography and interior design. To Alex, the world serves as an observatory. "Just like the universe that grows, matures and changes over time, I also allow myself to be in an eternal process of transformation," he explains. Alex's work is solitary and meditative, which allows him to rest his gaze on textures, colours and patterns that the world presents. With a poetic outlook on his craft, Alex develops his work calmly, aiming to clearly translate feelings into shapes and textures.

Interview

©Alex Rocca

©)Anderson Angelico

Why did you choose this craft?: At the time when I started, I felt a need to do something that grounded me more, something more personal and intimate. I felt the need to stop the crazy rhythm of my previous work and invest in a career which could provide a healthier quality of life. After exploring possibilities like embroidery, I finally found myself in tapestry.
How do you express tradition and innovation in your work?: Tapestry is an ancestral, familial, feminine art. In Brazil, our grandmothers did it, our mothers did it. Here, there has been a very strong culture of tapestry making since the mid-1960s. I see myself as perpetuating this path that was opened up by artists then. In parallel, using contemporary techniques puts me in a place of innovation.
How would you define what you do?: For me tapestry means much more than just a decorative object. Each piece overflows with layers of content and affection, culminating in a work that is the mirror of the soul itself. It is important for me that people are emotionally touched when they look at my work, that it awakens not only the sensation of something aesthetically interesting, but of something that goes beyond standards of beauty.
What would you suggest to a young person who wishes to pursue this path?: I think technique is a tool. It is worth the study, the dedication, the effort, but just as important as the technique, is finding your poetry, your narrative at work, what you want to say. This is what makes your work unique.

Alex Rocca is an expert artisan he began his career in 2000