JUAN PABLO CAICEDO Torres

1. How do you currently describe your practice?

My current practice is being an artist-in-residence everywhere I am. Encompassing transdisciplinarity and multiple media such as writing, photography, sound, video, installation, and performance. A practice sustained by the advocacy for culture and social justice intersecting art-making, cultural production, and education. 

2. What has been your favorite moment of your Arts Politics experience? 

As a whole, the experience of APP is of enormous human warmth, deep reflections, and powerful realizations. It has brought the acceptance and enhancement of our potential as creatives and change-makers. Besides every moment of laughter, joy, and meaningful conversation with everyone in the cohort, the opportunity to meet incredible guests and alumni has been unique. To name a few:  Narkita, Antonieta Landa, George Emilio Sanchez, Jeremy Dennis, Victor Peterson, Andrea Assaf, among many others. The treasure of APP is the amazing people that sustain and participate in the program.

3. What has been most challenging during your time in Arts Politics?

Moving to a city like New York is not easy, it requires a lot of physical, psychological, and spiritual strength. Being surrounded by talented, brilliant, creative, and critical people is inspiring and can also be intimidating, the greatest challenge has been being true to myself, and trusting and committing to the possibilities of my life and work. APP is an oasis in the middle of the chaotic and competitive world.

4. What are you working on post-grad?

I was awarded the HEAR US creative research grant so I will continue working on the project Coca, the Powers of a sacred plant while I find a job since I got my OPT permission and will stay in NYC. 

5. How has the Arts Politics program unfolded or shifted how you approach your work?

Grounding and expanding. The experience at Arts Politics has strengthened the roots and created new branches. It has helped me root the work in myself, and root myself in collectivity. An opportunity to expand my range of action with new languages, inventions, methods, and strategies.