Aryz on Resisting Art Commodification and the Value of Error

In an interview with Artribune, Spanish artist Aryz (Octavi Serra Arrizabalaga, born 1988 in Palo Alto) discusses his critical stance against the branding and commodification of contemporary art. He emphasizes process, error, and time over commercial output, rejecting rigid hierarchies between artistic languages. Aryz navigates between public space and museums, adapting his palette and technique to each context: murals require simplicity and integration with architecture, while oil painting exploits slow drying for depth. He values a timeless quality in his work, avoiding trends. On artistic independence, he notes that social media allows direct audience engagement without traditional intermediaries, enabling economic autonomy through print sales. However, he acknowledges the tension between freedom and market approval, often leading artists to repeat successful formulas. Aryz defends error as essential but a luxury under deadlines. He critiques the over-planning of public murals, where institutions demand detailed renderings, stifling improvisation and critical force. He prefers museums for contemplation and public space for societal dialogue, relegating galleries to a secondary role due to market pressures. The interview was conducted by Diana Cava.