Cherubina & Friends | Reyes Mancha

Cherubina & Friends: Today we talk with Reyes Mancha

In our series Cherubina & Friends, we love to delve into the lives of inspiring artists and creators. Today we have the pleasure of talking with Reyes Mancha, a young multidisciplinary painter from Seville strongly influenced by the world of bulls and horses.

What inspired you to dedicate yourself to painting and what were your first steps in the art world?
“It was something natural, I always liked painting since I was little. Little by little I started receiving commissions and at one point I saw the opportunity to take the step and dedicate myself professionally to what I like most,” Reyes tells us.

How has your style evolved from your beginnings to the present?
“The truth is that it has changed a lot. At first I was more focused on finding my style through different motifs, trying to perfect my technique. Over time, I have managed to consolidate a more defined style, which has allowed me to experiment with new ideas and approach them in different ways.”

The world of bulls and horses are prominent influences in your work. What attracts you to these themes and how do you integrate them into your paintings?
Reyes confesses that “these are two reasons that have always inspired me greatly.” She explains that her fascination with craftsmanship and the way movement becomes art are key for her. In her words, “capturing movement for me is a way of 'giving life' to each work.”

Apart from these themes, are there other elements or experiences that influence your creative process?
Reyes is clear: “I am always looking for new reasons to inspire me. I believe that creativity comes from observation.” From textures to colors, any detail of her cultural environment can be transformed into art.

You mainly use oil on canvas. What led you to choose this technique and what advantages do you find in it for expressing your art?
“I think oil is very versatile, because of the possibilities it offers in terms of colour mixes and texture,” he explains. For Reyes, the material is as important as the idea, and he always seeks the best combination for each work.

In 2023, you were the author of the poster for the Sanlúcar de Barrameda Horse Races. How was that experience and what did it mean to you?
With a smile on his face, Reyes remembers that it was “a dream come true.” The opportunity and responsibility were immense, but so was the satisfaction of seeing his work representing such a special event.

Is there any particular work that has special meaning for you?
“There is one very special one,” he confesses. It arose unexpectedly when a Mexican tourist, seeing one of his paintings, asked him to capture the central aspect of his life in a work. “The result was very moving and to this day we maintain a good friendship.”

In 2016, you won second prize in the Real Club de Enganches de Andalucía competition. What impact did this recognition have on your career?
“Having my work selected encourages me a lot and helps me improve in what I like to do most,” Reyes tells us with humility and gratitude.

What goals or projects do you have in mind for the future of your artistic career?
“I have new designs that will be released soon and more personalized projects that I am finishing, which I am very excited about.” For Reyes, every challenge is an opportunity to evolve and experiment.

What advice would you give to young artists who are just starting out in the art world?
His answer is simple but powerful: “Consistency, work and enthusiasm, and above all, enjoying the process.”

From Cherubina, we would like to thank Reyes Mancha for sharing his inspiring career with us. His dedication and passion for art remind us that dreams come true with effort and love for what you do. We will certainly be following his upcoming projects closely.