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Articles
Here you can find my articles on topics that range from pastel conservation guides, art and inspiration to the business side of running an art studio and my personal experience in the Art world.
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The Artist’s Journey: A Path Through the Visible and the Invisible
To be an artist is to listen to what cannot be heard and give form to what cannot be seen. Each work is a bridge between worlds—material and metaphysical, seen and felt.

André Rios
Jun 72 min read


From Studio to Soul: Building a Ritual Around Your Art Practice
Ritual gives structure to the art-making process—not to control it, but to honor it. When your steps are deliberate and consistent, entering the studio becomes more than starting work—it becomes returning to yourself.

André Rios
May 292 min read


Art as a Way to Train the Mind and Shape the Self
For me, drawing is more than image-making—it’s a discipline of awareness. Each stroke is a small act of becoming, shaping not just the picture, but the person behind it. Art is the place where I train my perception, confront my restlessness, and learn to be more fully present. The paper is not just a surface—it’s a mirror.

André Rios
May 222 min read


Why Learning to See Is More Important Than Learning to Draw
Most beginners don’t struggle with drawing—they struggle with seeing. Before your hand can draw with precision, your eye must learn to observe without assumptions. In this article, I explore why visual perception is the true foundation of art, and how learning to see changes everything—not just your technique, but your entire relationship with the world.

André Rios
May 172 min read


Why I Quit Social Media
I quit social media to protect the part of me that creates. What began as a tool for connection slowly became a distraction from the deeper work. In this article, I share why I stepped away—and what I’ve reclaimed in the silence.

André Rios
May 172 min read


The True Work Is Carved in Silence
An intimate reflection on the unseen side of artmaking—the inner transformation of the artist and the soulwork behind every piece. What remains for the world is only dust.

André Rios
May 152 min read


Hyperrealism: Art Beyond the Surface
Hyperrealism is often misunderstood. Some dismiss it as mere imitation, a technical stunt without soul. “If you want something realistic, just take a photo,” they say. But this view misses something essential—not just about painting, but about art itself.

André Rios
May 42 min read


My Artistic Inspiration
I've gone through various artistic phases, with my sources of inspiration constantly evolving. From a very young age, I had a stronger fascination with art materials compared to other kids. The materials themselves intrigued me, and as I matured, I developed a deep appreciation for Japanese anime art. I spent a considerable amount of time collecting anime cards and replicating the drawings from those prints. During my college years, I pursued art courses and attended art clas
Andre Rios Art
Sep 14, 20234 min read


Bringing Everyday Objects to Life
Everyday objects can tell captivating stories when rendered in pastel. As I explore the enchanting realm of still life pastel art, I realize That I can breathe life into mundane objects and transform them into compelling narratives. Still-life subjects offer an excellent opportunity for experimentation, learning, and honing my artistic skills. The process of painting a lifelike object requires a solid understanding of various aspects, including perspective, value, form, light
Andre Rios Art
Sep 13, 20233 min read


My Artistic Process - InSquare Series
By revealing the "how" and "why" behind my art, I aim to inspire you to embark on your creative journeys.
Andre Rios Art
Sep 11, 20234 min read


Painting with Soft Pastels
In my journey as an artist, I've experimented with a wide array of mediums, from watercolors to oils, acrylics, inks, charcoal, and graphite. Each had its allure, but when I stumbled upon pastel pencils, it was nothing short of love at first sight. They felt like colored pencils on steroids, with intense colors and effortless blending capabilities. This discovery led me to make a life-changing decision – to commit exclusively to pastels. As I delved deeper into the world of p
Andre Rios Art
Sep 11, 20232 min read
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