Danilo Garrido's work invites viewers into imperfect, untamed worlds that challenge traditional boundaries of creativity and meaning. In this conversation, Garido shares insights on the role of the artist, the ethics of creation, and the transformative power of staying true to one’s vision.
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Do you think art that is created for commercial success loses its integrity, or can it still hold meaning?
I believe that art truly makes sense when we are able to create what we truly desire, without worrying about pleasing an audience or meeting others' expectations. For me, art should not be conditioned by the idea of commercial success, as that would mean fully surrendering to the tastes and demands of others, which empties the work of authenticity. I believe that art, in its purest form, emerges from the genuine impulse of the creator, from their need to express themselves and explore their unique vision of the world.
How do you reconcile the tension between raw, innate creativity and the discipline required to master your craft?
For me, photography, illustration, or any artistic discipline are simply means through which I can materialize my ideas. Although I had academic training in art, I prefer not to focus too much on technical aspects and instead follow a more visceral path, where intuition and emotion guide the creative process.
What do you think is the most meaningful role an artist plays in society today?
In Chile, the response typically given from school is “practically nil”, even the art subject is optional class and few choose it. However it is the artist who ultimately brings that disorder, dreaminess, freedom and creative chaos that the world needs. It is the artist who ultimately creates a universal language; the only language we can all understand.
How important is it for viewers to understand the intended message of your work? Does ambiguity add value, or do you seek clarity in your expression?
I believe that photography is a world apart, a universe built from reality but that goes beyond it. What interests me in conveying is not a pre-established message or a fixed interpretation, but rather that imperfect world that forms through the photo. I don’t seek for my work to have a message or a lesson beyond what is seen; I prefer that the audience contributes their own meaning.
Have you ever struggled with the ethics of your art—such as who it represents or who it impacts?
I believe that everything I do, I do with the sole intention that I like it and it makes me feel satisfied. I have never considered who it might represent or the impact it might have on others, whether positive or negative. For me, it wouldn’t make sense to create with that focus, because the important thing is that my work reflects myself. Maybe it’s selfish, but I don’t do what I do for others. In my case, it’s a deeply introspective process, and I feel that by staying true to myself, the impact will be something natural, without consciously seeking it.
How has your artistic style transformed over the years? Are there specific influences, experiments, or moments that marked a turning point?
At first, I wanted to be an illustrator and make a living from it, as drawing was what really interested me. However, when this became my job and I started making money from it, I began to lose interest. That’s when I became interested in photography, and once I was there, I promised myself not to seek money from it. I decided to do what I really wanted, without the filter of thinking about something that could be “marketable.” Since that moment, I’ve been exploring different photography styles.
If you had the chance to sit down with any creative mind from history, who would it be and what would you ask?
I’ve always had many influences when it comes to creating photos or illustrations, but there was a moment when I came across El Topo, a film by Alejandro Jodorowsky. It was a work that deeply impacted me, and from there, I began to immerse myself more into his creative world. Since then, Jodorowsky has become one of my greatest influences. His approach to art and visual storytelling has influenced me in a way I had not experienced with other artists.
If I had the opportunity to sit down with any creative mind in history, it would be with him. I wouldn’t ask anything particular; I’d let him tell me whatever he wants.
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Through a delicate balance of intuition and skill, Garrido's invites others to find their own meaning, reminding us of art's enduring ability to communicate, provoke, and inspire.