We had the good fortune of connecting with Diego Tirigall and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Diego, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I guess it’s probably because I’m a bit of a workaholic, haha. But if I have to pinpoint one or two key factors behind my success, I’d say it’s my ability to really tap into the issues of our times while also taking an entrepreneurial approach against a somewhat rigid art system. Take my ‘Unhealthy Preserves’ collection, for example. I use Warhol’s iconic Campbell’s soup cans to represent how social media is kinda feeding us the most unsubstantial content, much like junk food, filling our minds with the trivial and superficial. It’s my way of bringing contemporary concerns to the forefront, illustrating the real impact of our digital lives.
The story doesn’t end there, though. As an artist, waiting for the traditional art world to take notice isn’t an option. I’ve had to be proactive, almost entrepreneurial, constantly seeking new and innovative ways to get my art seen. It’s not just about challenging the system; it’s about redefining the game. In a world that often prioritizes the familiar and overlooks the novel, I’m committed to forging new paths for my art and challenging how contemporary art is perceived and valued. This journey also includes supporting other artists. I’m currently developing a podcast and a YouTube channel to share my experiences and insights. It keeps me busy, you know? I’m always striving for more.
A big lesson for me has been realizing that you can’t sit around waiting for things to come to you. I’ve always had this long-term perspective, treating every piece of work like a building block for something bigger, something lasting.
And, you know, I’ve always had this belief that anything’s possible. Instead of wondering if I can achieve something, I focus on finding ways to make it happen. This attitude has been a huge part of my success.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d also take them to The LAB Miami in Wynwood, a hub for innovation where there’s always something cool happening. For a taste of the unconventional, we’d visit museums like the Wolfsonian-FIU, known for its eclectic collection.
And the nightlife? We’d dive into Miami’s amazing underground scene, where art and music genres blend uniquely. Of course, we can’t miss out on the street food and local markets for some culinary adventures. And to wind down, a relaxing day at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden would be perfect – it’s such an inspiring and tranquil spot.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
In reflecting on my journey, I realize that it’s been filled with inspirations rather than traditional mentors. My path has essentially been a tapestry of lessons learned from a multitude of sources. I’m a big believer in the value of role models in every aspect of our lives, particularly in art and business.
From an artistic standpoint, legends like Basquiat and Andy Warhol, among many others, have profoundly influenced me. Their distinct approaches, styles, and ways of seeing the world have indelibly shaped my own work. But beyond art, I’ve learned a great deal by observing how others handle the operational side of things, from managing social media to building personal brands and amplifying exposure.
I’ve mostly been self-taught, devouring books and soaking up all the content I could find online. While I haven’t had a mentor in the traditional sense, inspiration has come from the most unexpected places. The resilience and entrepreneurial drive of my brothers, for instance, have shown me that dedication and hard work really do yield results. My parents’ love for art, being antiquarians and restorers, and my wife’s unwavering belief in me, especially during tough times in my career, have been absolutely pivotal.
Website: diegotirigall.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diego_tirigall/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diegotirigall/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diego.tirigall.art/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@diegotirigall/videos
Other: TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@tirigall