Rodrigo Oñate, known in the art world as Roco, brings an explosive blend of graffiti, comics, and pop culture to life in his vibrant and energetic paintings. The Chicago and Querétaro-based artist seamlessly weaves together a mashup of characters, patterns, and surreal elements, creating works that feel both playful and profound. His bold artistic voice draws from personal stories, Mexican mythology, and a love for movement and texture, resulting in pieces that capture the viewer’s imagination.
Roco’s creative process is as spontaneous as the art itself. Describing it as “intuitive, almost like graffiti writing,” he explains how each work starts with a series of lines that serve as a foundation. From there, a vibrant array of characters and shapes begins to emerge, all while adding layers of texture and intricate forms. His signature style, a riot of squiggles, patterns, and comic-inspired figures, brings a sense of movement and fluidity that captures the eye and draws the viewer deeper into his world. The balance between color and texture is at the core of his composition, resulting in a style that is unmistakably his.
The figures that populate Roco’s work are a mix of whimsical and deeply personal. Birds, for example, hold significant meaning—stemming from his mother’s belief that the birds visiting their family garden were ancestors returning from another realm. This spiritual connection is a recurring theme throughout his work. Dogs, often seen in his pieces, are a nod to his own beloved trio of pets, offering a touch of warmth and familiarity. Jaguars and other large cats reference the spiritual guides found in Mexican mythology, grounding his modern pop-infused style in cultural heritage. Primates, with their playful nature, are another common motif, embodying joy and lightheartedness, which are key emotions Roco hopes to evoke in viewers.
Beyond his intricate wall pieces and canvases, Roco’s art is accessible in other forms as well. Prints and various goods featuring his designs are available through his online shop, allowing fans to bring a piece of his vibrant world into their own homes. His Instagram is a lively showcase of his current works, collaborations, and murals, making it the perfect place to follow his creative journey.
Roco’s work transcends borders, blending influences from both his Mexican roots and his life in Chicago, while also drawing from global pop culture. His pieces are a visual celebration, reflecting not only the energy of the streets but also a deeper connection to the spiritual and personal realms. Whether on a mural or canvas, Roco’s art is a spirited explosion of color, movement, and storytelling that invites everyone to take a moment and appreciate the joy and creativity in life.
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