An Interview with Acclaimed Venezuelan Jose Margulis
Jose Margulis is a 3D geometric abstract artist whose work reflects an extraordinary eye for color theory. He uses plexiglass, acrylic and aluminum composite materials to create sculptural work that to the viewer, projects an illusion of shape shifting artwork. The dynamic energy and movement of Jose’s work is transformational -- both for the art itself and for the viewer.
We recently sat down with Jose and dove deep into his process, in order to better understand his sources of inspiration. The results of this dynamic interview was a more intimate understanding of the man himself, his creative process, and his thoughts on today’s art world.
Question: How and when did you know you were committed to making art for a lifetime?
Answer: I started relatively late in life as a professional artist, which gave me the opportunity to do many other things beforehand—some with success, but none with a true sense of joy or purpose. That contrast made it very clear how deeply different art felt.
I remember once saying to myself with a heavy heart, “Maybe not in this lifetime. Maybe in another—but not this one.”
Years later, life placed me mysteriously on this path. And when I suddenly felt my voice was being heard—when I knew I was communicating from a sacred place within—I realized I had been given a chance to live my dream and build a meaningful life.
The day I sold my first piece to a stranger, I remembered that earlier conversation with myself and realized: Yes, it will be in this lifetime. I never looked back.
Question: Who has been the biggest inspiration to you?
Answer: I don’t have one single inspiration, and not all come from the art world. I’m deeply moved by men and women throughout history who lived lives of purpose—those who made the world better by having the courage to follow their vision and stay true to the calling of their souls.
Question: How do you stay connected and up to date with the art world?
Answer: Honestly, I don’t actively try to. I live my life deeply and intuitively. I follow my instincts and listen to my own voice.
I recognize the existence of a collective creative current—something like a river we all draw from and contribute to. That’s the connection I trust most.
Question: Any advice for young collectors? Any advice for seasoned collectors?
Answer: I’m not sure “advice” is the right word, but I’ll share this: Reflect on art. See yourself in it. If you connect with a piece—if it moves you or adds value to your experience—then it’s a meaningful work to collect.
Forget about market value, trends, or status. Make the experience personal. Make it yours.
Question: How do you know when a work is finished?
Answer: A piece is finished when it detaches from me. It stops being mine and becomes something independent, with its own presence and personality.
That moment is always profound—because I can finally admire the work from a place not entangled in ego.
Question: What is the principal message you are trying to say with your work?
Answer: Be aware—of your life, your surroundings, your inner world.
Awareness is freedom. Awareness is light; it illuminates the dark corners of the self.
My work aims to be a gateway—an invitation into your own inner experience.
Question: What’s the biggest misconception about being an artist?
Answer: That art and entrepreneurship are at odds. In truth, artists must wear many hats—and all of them can be worn creatively. You can be artistic in how you build, present, and sustain your practice.
Question: How do your interests outside of art fuel your artwork?
Answer: The fuel of my work comes precisely from that—my wider life, my reflections, my philosophy, my observations. Everything I live outside of art enters the studio as raw material.
