Alexandra “Chachi” Riesco, born in 1994, is a multifaceted artist whose work bridges the gap between fine art and the natural world. Hailing from Miami, Florida, Riesco’s journey has taken her from the academic halls of Dartmouth College to the rugged outdoors and back to the art studio, creating a unique perspective that infuses her printmaking with the raw energy of nature.
Riesco’s academic background is as diverse as her artistic pursuits. She graduated from Dartmouth College in 2017 with a B.A. in Studio Art and Biology modified with Earth Sciences. This interdisciplinary approach laid the foundation for her future work, allowing her to see the interconnectedness of art and natural processes. Her talent was recognized early on, earning her the Robert Read Prize for work in graphic arts and the Artist’s Book Prize in her senior year.
After graduation, Riesco took an unconventional path, spending two years in outdoor education. This experience deepened her connection to nature and informed her artistic vision. Upon returning to the art world, she honed her skills at IS Projects in South Florida, working as the Studio and Education Assistant. Currently, she applies her expertise as an Assistant Printer at Oehme Graphics in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, a prestigious fine art print publisher.
Riesco’s artistic practice is deeply rooted in her understanding of natural processes. A pivotal moment in her development came during a semester-long geology field program, where she discovered striking parallels between the forces shaping our planet and the meticulous processes of printmaking. This revelation has become a central theme in her work, which incorporates intaglio, relief, and bookbinding techniques to explore landscape formation and our connections to them through time and memory.
But Riesco’s art isn’t confined to the studio. Her adventurous spirit takes her into nature, where she finds inspiration in activities like whitewater kayaking. She draws fascinating connections between carving through rapids and etching into printing plates, seeing both as ways of interacting with and shaping the world around her.
However, Riesco’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Navigating the intersection of art, science, and adventure presents unique obstacles. Through her work, she not only confronts these challenges but also highlights the critical importance of maintaining our connection to nature in an increasingly urbanised world.
Riesco’s story is beautifully captured in the film “Finding the Line,” which is set to make its Australian premiere at the Gutsy Girls Adventure Film Tour. The film promises to offer viewers an intimate look at how Riesco balances her artistic pursuits with her love for outdoor adventures, and how these seemingly disparate passions inform and enrich each other.
Chachi represents a new generation of artists who are breaking down the barriers between disciplines. By combining her scientific knowledge, artistic skill, and adventurous spirit, she creates work that not only captivates the eye but also encourages viewers to consider their own relationship with the natural world. As she continues to explore and create, Riesco’s unique vision promises to inspire both art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
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