Mural Fest Artist - Claudio “Remix 1” Rico

Q&A with Claudio "Remix 1" Rico - Make It Your Own Mural Fest Artist

Wabash County | North Manchester

• Artist | Claudio “Remix 1” Rico
• Hometown | Mexico City
• Mural Location | 214 E. Main St., North Manchester, IN 46962

1. Why is public art important to a community’s quality of life?

Public art allows communities to not only take pride in their surroundings but also become strong, united entities when they actively participate in the creation process. Whether it’s helping the artists paint, suggesting ideas or even just watching the creation of a mural gives opportunities to learn, grow and become a part of something that will beautify their world! Public art also empowers the community and creates a sense of security and safety for everyone around becoming a strong psychological positive influence over the environment.

2. Why did you apply to install a mural in Northeast Indiana? 

We are on a mission to beautify our world, spread knowledge and the healing power of color through murals and what better place to continue that mission than Northeast Indiana. We strive to create art that will make Northeast Hoosiers feel proud. We were also very excited to mentor and teach other young artists in the creation process as this is part of our mission to spread knowledge and beautify our world.      

3. What is it about installing/painting murals that you enjoy so much?

There are so many reasons we love painting murals, first of all, together, we have the ability to create a sense of community. This gives us great joy and a sense of purpose and fulfillment as part of our mission. It is also a way to learn about one’s self, to express ideas and emotions and to grow into a better artist and human being. When painting the rest of the world falls away, thoughts and ideas flood in about life, beliefs ... Am I on the right path? Are my thoughts and actions correct, how can I improve? How can I grow? Lots of questions come during these moments and sometimes even catharsis occurs, enlightened thoughts come and there is a great release of feelings. It’s cool and very liberating.

4. What is it like installing a mural?

It is a challenging, fun and liberating process, sometimes there will be difficulties, moments when I get frustrated and want to quit when the sun won't stop burning my skin and being up high is quite scary, but once you allow yourself to take the leap of faith and go outside your “comfort zone” that’s when you learn new things and that’s when you grow as an artist and human being.

5. What else would you like Northeast Indiana residents to know about you and your artwork?

What we do has one ‘purpose’... to be enjoyed. But art also has the ability to make the residents feel proud and empowered. Empowered by the beauty and the transformation of a grey wall into something that can bring joy. Empowered to go beyond what we have ever imagined, to know that it is possible to change your surroundings, your life your world. There are no limits, ever. You can do it if you can imagine it! 

About Claudio "Remix 1" Rico

I started painting on the streets when I was a teen doing classical graffiti pieces and murals. Eventually, I was looking to improve my art and being able to reach a bigger audience. I decided to start studying formally at the university and traveling to other countries to paint. I've always been guided by an authentic need of inspiring people to become their best versions. I thought about ways of making people feel not only amazed by the mural but also proud of the community. I thought, "Maybe being the tinder creating a fire in their souls." Read more about Remix 1 on his website here.

See Claudio's previous work below.