Jorge Mañes Rubio is an artist who creates stunning sculptures using a variety of materials such as sequins, glass beads, rhinestones, plaster, and paint. His work is inspired by ancient tales, Spanish illuminated manuscripts, family heirlooms, and pop culture. Rubio’s art explores the connection between the past and present, transforming religious imagery into unexpected forms like beaded basketballs and functional objects.
One of his recent pieces, titled “La Noche que Desvela una Luz sin Medida,” takes a black safety glove typically worn by motocross racers and turns it into a medieval-inspired gauntlet. Adorned with flame motifs, twisted cord, glass beads, and medallions collected by the artist’s great-grandmother from European monasteries, the glove is displayed on a handmade pedestal, resembling a precious relic rather than a mere garment.
Rubio explains that the title of the piece, which translates to “The Night that Reveals a Light without Measure” in Spanish, symbolizes both the act of uncovering and remaining vigilant. The glove is embellished with beaded flames, colorful rhinestones, and the Fox Racing logo, reflecting the artist’s passion for motocross and the heritage of his family.
Combining traditional embroidery techniques with bold graphics, Rubio’s art merges contrasting worlds to create unique and contemporary pieces. His ongoing series, “New Prophets,” features a chair with a hand-sculpted frame and beaded reliefs in artist-made frames that reimagine medieval painted manuscript pages in a modern light.
To explore more of Rubio’s work, visit his website and Instagram. His sculptures are a captivating blend of ancient motifs and modern elements, offering a fresh perspective on religious imagery and traditional craftsmanship.
