MEDIANERAS

An Argentinian urban artist duet, based in Barcelona, that have created their own global gallery of inspiring murals around the world. MEDIANERAS urban artwork involves the anamorphosis technique while mainly inspired by people and architecture! Having travelled across continents, they introduce the diversity of gender in all its forms. Their aim is to provoke thought and dialogue while beautifying large urban surfaces.

It’s nice would you like to drink? Coffee, Tea, Beer, Soda or something else?

If it’s morning, I like to drink mate (Argentinian tee); if it’s in the late afternoon, a few beers would be nice.

-Introduce yourself to us – as if we had no idea who you were!

We are Vanesa Galdeano and Anali Chanquia, a couple who merged our backgrounds in architecture and fine arts to bring Medianeras to life. We both studied and graduated at the National University of Rosario, Argentina and in 2012, we decided to take our paths further by founding this project in our hometown, Rosario, Argentina. Since then, muralism has taken us to 22 countries and over 58 cities, where we’ve had the chance to engage with diverse cultures and people. We currently live in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, in Barcelona, where we’ve established our studio and continue developing our artistic vision.

–Where does your Artist name come from?

We chose to name the project Medianeras (shared walls between buildings) because, in architecture, “medianeras” are shared walls that mark the boundaries between separate spaces, yet connect them at the same time. Unlike ordinary walls, which often divide and isolate, medianeras are by nature collaborative spaces, co-owned by neighbors, linking them through the physical structure. We believe in public art as a tool that not only beautifies cities but also questions and redefines the concept of the collective, of what belongs to everyone. This concept resonated with us deeply, as it reflects our belief in the power of art to connect people in shared urban environments. Public art, especially on these shared walls, has the potential to transform both the landscape and the way people feel about communal spaces. By painting on medianeras, we create something that belongs not only to us as artists but to everyone around. In this way, Medianeras embodies our vision of art as a medium for sharing, bridging, and transforming what might otherwise be purely functional boundaries into places of connection.

-How do you define yourselves and why? Artists? Street artists? Something else?

We define ourselves as urban artists and muralists, focusing on the connection with public space and the community. Our style is a blend of our talents, where abstraction and figuration come together to create murals that represent the diversity of gender in all its forms. We use the anamorphosis technique, which distorts images as you move away from the observation point, creating an illusory three-dimensional effect. This distortion fascinates us because it generates new kinds of beauty.

– How did it all start for you, and what is it nowadays?

We come from Argentina, from Latin America, and the way we approach urban art has a particular energy. When we started making art in the streets, painting in public spaces wasn’t just allowed—it was an experience that always involved sharing with neighbors while we worked. Urban art is not only an intervention on a wall; it’s an act of claiming space and, in a way, an expression of rebellion. In our first encounters with graffiti and street art, we found a sense of freedom that allowed us to connect directly with people, with the streets, and with the everyday life of a community. In Argentina, and much of Latin America, there’s an almost organic relationship with public space. Street art becomes a medium to interact, question, and transform the environment, always in dialogue with the people who live there. This deeply influenced our vision and led us to see muralism as a tool for change, expression, and connection.

Nowadays, creating murals has become our main work. We travel the world painting in different locations, allowing us to connect with various cultures and communities. Through our art, we explore themes of identity, diversity, and beauty, creating spaces for dialogue and reflection in the places where our murals are located. This artistic journey enriches us and motivates us to continue sharing our stories and experiences through painting.

-What is the first thing you do when you get up in the morning?

Well, it depends on whether we are painting in a city while traveling or if we are in Barcelona. If we are traveling, we wake up, have breakfast at the hotel, and then head straight out to paint all day. On the other hand, when we are in Barcelona, at our studio, we wake up, always have breakfast with some mate (Argentinian tea), and then we primarily work on the computer or in the studio.

-Street art is mostly a visually stimulating form of art. To add one more sense to it, what music would you pick to accompany your art work?

Without a doubt, today it would be ARCA. Her music resonates with the themes we explore in our work.

-In all forms of art, inspiration is crucial. What inspires you and how does that end up in your art?

We are inspired by portraits of people we don’t know, anonymous individuals. We work with portraits as if they were collages, placing – for example- one person’s eyes and another’s mouth, creating representations that lack a defined gender. Instead, our art raises questions about identity and beauty, inviting viewers to contemplate the multiplicity of human experiences and to challenge conventional notions of gender.

Furthermore, architecture plays a major role in our inspiration. The places from which we observe the portraits, along with the possibility of distorting the faces, contribute to generating strange and distorted beauties. We are inspired by the lines, shapes and textures of urban environments, integrating architecture into our work. This interaction between the human figure and architectural elements allows us to explore how context influences perception, creating a dialogue between the environment and the identities we portray.

-What is the hardest part while working on a piece of art?

There are many challenges, but one of the hardest parts is being convinced about the design. It’s complicated because there’s always the temptation to explore different ideas or make changes. Defining the design is difficult, especially when we want to ensure that we are satisfied from every perspective. We constantly consider how the artwork will look from various viewpoints, which requires a deep understanding of both the composition and the environment. This process adjustment can be quite challenging, as we strive to create a piece that resonates with us and engages the audience effectively.

-Do you have any artist(s) you admire? Can you pinpoint what it is that makes them so special for you?

There are many artists we admire in various fields, not just muralists. For example, we really appreciate the specific installations of Lolo and Sosaku. What makes their work special to us is their ability to create immersive experiences that engage the viewer in a profound way.

Additionally, we admire the work of street artist NESPOON. Her diverse work includes lace-inspired murals. NESPOON’s exploration of themes such as femininity and cultural heritage, combined with her ability to integrate traditional techniques with contemporary street art, serves as a powerful inspiration for us.

-Which cities are the most inspiring for you as an artist?

The truth is that every city or town has its unique qualities and beauties, making it difficult to choose just a few. We have a deep appreciation for Latin America as a whole, as it is where we come from, and its vibrant cultures inspire us greatly. However, we also find the exotic fascinating when it strays from our own culture, as it continuously surprises us. When we travel, we value the opportunity to discover those beautiful diversities. For instance, Thailand captivated us with its rich traditions and colors, while Albania surprised us with its stunning landscapes and welcoming communities. Each place we visit contributes to our artistic journey, enriching our perspective and informing our work in unique ways.

-What other passions do you have apart from art?

We are quite workaholic and dedicate a significant amount of our time to art. When we’re not painting, we spend our time visiting exhibitions, open studios, or events in Barcelona. However, we also cherish moments spent with friends and family, as those connections bring us joy and balance. In addition to our artistic pursuits, we love exploring new places when we travel. Discovering different cultures, cuisines, and local traditions fuels our creativity and enriches us. Whether it’s hiking in nature, enjoying good food, or simply relaxing with loved ones, these experiences outside of art are essential to our well-being and help us recharge for our creative endeavors.

-Do you have a special project that you hope to achieve some day?

Currently, we are focused on creating in the studio, which is a significant challenge for us. We feel most comfortable and inspired when we are producing in public spaces, where we can connect directly with the community and the environment. However, this studio project presents an opportunity to explore new ideas and mediums, pushing us outside of our comfort zone. Ultimately, we hope to create a body of work that reflects our experiences and artistic journey, combining elements of our public art with studio practice. This project will allow us to delve deeper into our themes of identity and diversity while experimenting with different forms of expression. It’s an exciting endeavor that we believe will enrich our artistic practice and open up new avenues for engagement with our audience.

-Tell us a bit more about your art; does it include symbolisms, messages or repeated patterns? How has it evolved?

I think our work has changed significantly over the years. Initially, our focus was primarily on creating visually striking murals, but as we evolved as artists, so did our themes and techniques. Our art now incorporates rich symbolism and messages, particularly around identity, gender and diversity. We often combine different individuals to challenge conventional notions of beauty and identity. This approach encourages viewers to reflect on the fluidity of gender and the multiplicity of human experiences. In terms of patterns, we have begun to integrate more intricate designs that draw inspiration from various cultures and natural forms, further enriching our visual language. Our evolution has been shaped by our experiences, the communities we engage with and our travels, all of which continue to inspire and inform our artistic practice. Working as a duo has shaped not only our process but also the depth of our ideas. Each of us brings unique strengths to the works of art we create. Collaboration means constant communication and engagement, but it also means that every project is enriched.

– How long time does your art work, on walls, usually survive for?

The longevity of our artwork on walls can vary significantly based on several factors, including the materials used, environmental conditions, and the location itself. Generally, murals can last anywhere from a few years to over a decade.

In urban environments, exposure to weather elements, pollution, and urban development can wear down a mural more quickly. However, we aim to use high-quality paints and protective coatings to enhance durability. We also embrace the idea that art can evolve over time; some murals may fade or change, which can add another layer of meaning to the work as it interacts with its environment and the community. Ultimately, the survival of our art on walls is not just about its physical presence, but also about the impact it leaves on those who experience it, regardless of how long it lasts.

-What do you think, people feel or think of, when they see one of your works on the street?

When people see one of our works on the street, we hope they feel a sense of curiosity and connection. Our murals often challenge traditional notions of identity and beauty, so we aim to provoke thought and dialogue. We want viewers to reflect on the themes of gender fluidity and diversity that we explore in our art.

Some may feel a sense of joy or surprise, especially if our work resonates with their own experiences or perspectives. Others might find themselves contemplating their own identity and how it relates to the broader societal constructs we address. Ultimately, we hope our art sparks conversations, fosters understanding, and encourages people to embrace the beauty of diversity in all its forms. Each reaction is unique, shaped by the individual’s background and experiences, which is what makes public art so powerful and impactful.

-What are your creative plans for the future?

Our creative plans for the future are still not fully defined, and we are actively working on shaping them. This uncertainty is part of what makes the process exciting, isn’t it? We enjoy the freedom to explore new ideas and directions, allowing our creativity to lead us to unexpected places. Whether it’s developing new projects in the studio, collaborating with other artists, or continuing to paint in public spaces, we are open to the possibilities that lie ahead. Embracing this fluidity allows us to remain inspired and connected to the ever-evolving nature of our art.

-Is there a little wish you have that not many people know about?

We have a little wish that not many people know about: we want to buy a car. Having our own vehicle would allow us to travel to various places from home with all our materials conveniently stored in the trunk. This would give us the freedom to explore new locations and create art in different environments, enhancing our connection with the communities we visit. It’s a simple desire, but it would significantly enrich our artistic journey and enable us to embark on more spontaneous adventures!

-Is there a specific thought or message you would like to pass to our audience out there?

We want to convey that perspectives are as varied as the number of people who observe our works. Each individual brings their own unique viewpoint, shaped by their social constructs and personal experiences. This individuality is what makes art so powerful; it invites dialogue and reflection. We encourage everyone to engage with our murals and consider how their own backgrounds influence their interpretation. By embracing this diversity of thought, we can foster a deeper understanding of each other and the world around us.

Thank you! It’s been great to get to know more about the mind and person behind such talented and inspiring works.