Dan Alva American, b. 1984

Putting a spin on a classic is what American contemporary artist Dan Alva does best.  Born in 1984, Alva hails from a lineage of accomplished Spanish artists. He spent much of his childhood working alongside his father in the family garage, where he credits much of his artistic foundation. Photography became Alva's gateway into creativity, and he began experimenting with digital cameras in their early days, capturing nights out and skateboarding sessions with friends. His journey then led him into graphic design and, later, the world of advertising.

 

Currently based in Miami, Alva is known for revitalizing classical art forms for a modern audience.  Using mixed media, sculpture, and paint, the artist experiments to find unexpected or ironic pairings—innovative combinations that often reflect his advertising background. By infusing his contemporary style into the canons of art history, Alva masterfully navigates the delicate balance between honoring his source material and breathing new life into it.

 

"I don't want my paintings to be a like a copy of a Picasso or a Van Gogh, they have another layer to them."

 

Renowned for his ability to reimagine the great masters, Alva's work exudes an undeniable allure. His vibrant, intricately crafted creations blend figurative elements with bold, modern touches—such as camouflage patterns and striking stripes. Beyond his artistic practice, Alva has spent over 15 years contributing his creativity to the advertising industry, where his innovative work has garnered widespread recognition. Notably, his exceptional talent earned him a place in the permanent film collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), further cementing his status as a leading contemporary artist.