Juan Alberto Pérez Rojas

The pride of tradition and devotion

• Juan Alberto opened his own workshop in 2009
• He focuses on religious imagery
• His creations are one-of-a-kind

Seville is a city with deep faith and spirituality and Juan Alberto Pérez Rojas is party to this tradition. His sculptures of sacred imagery reveal, in his words, “the invisibility of the beauty of God, source of all beauty.” From his workshop based in the historic San Lorenzo, Juan Alberto prides himself on intertwining tradition and devotion, carrying on centuries-old techniques perfected over time by human ingenuity. His main source of inspiration is the work of his predecessors, studied and re-interpreted. Juan Alberto also infuses his creation with a specific theme that links the creation to the commission. In his works he seeks to convey a sense of emotion and contemplation, through flawless execution.

Interview

©Daniel Salvador-Almeida

©Paulo Ramalho

What do you love most about your craft?

I am in love with the process of creation, since both my mind and body are involved in it. Each work is a one-of-a-kind and responds to the bond that is established with the client.

Could you describe your work?

Specifically, I am devoted to religious imagery, in wood, terracotta or bronze. I have also carried out portraits as a sculptural discipline. Within the field of polychrome sculpture, carving and finishes in fine gold are one of my specialties.

Is there a personal anecdote you would like to share?

I am extremely honoured to have portrayed my children in some of my works, creating an even deeper bond with what I do and a sense of responsibility towards perfection in the execution, along with a sense of gratitude.

As someone who seeks perfection, what does well made mean to you?

I like to think of the Latin phrase “finis coronat opus,” to me it means that the work, if it is not finished with the utmost human perfection, remains incomplete. In my work, I try to combine professional competence with Christian perfection (service and offering to God), to achieve a work of art that is moving and elevates the spirit.

Juan Alberto Pérez Rojas is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2004

Works

©Roberto Villarica

©Roberto Villarica

©Roberto Villarica

©Alberto Pérez Rojas

©Alberto Pérez Rojas

Where