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Spring 2011, #5, Spotlights
Interview with Harry Medina
I spoke to Bronx artist and resident Harry Medina about his background history and idea behind his transformed figures.
XF: How old are you?
Harry Medina: I'm 47 years old.
XF: Where are you from originally?
Harry Medina: I'm Puerto Rican. I was born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico and moved to New York City when I was 5 years old. I come from a pretty large family.
XF: Oh, wow, that's where my family is from. So you were five? Where did your family move?
Harry Medina: I've lived here since I was five years old. We lived near Jackson and Tinton Avenues in the Bronx.
XF: Do you still live in the Bronx?
Harry Medina: Yes, I do.
XF: How long have you been making art?
Harry Medina: I've been making figurines since 1993. Before that I made models as a hobby. But, then, one day, I decided to make figurines.
XF: Did you go to school for this?
Harry Medina: No. When I was a child, I created my own toys and I drew a lot. But, I was more into making three-dimensional figures.
XF: So you liked drawing, too?
Harry Medina: I was more into making figurines than drawing. I just like it more.
XF: What inspired you for these works?
Harry Medina: Well, I remember back in the early 90's, I tried customizing the figure. But back then, I didn’t have a clue. So, I couldn’t really do it.
XF: So, when did it really start?
Harry Medina: In the late 90’s, I said to myself, “let me try to do this again.” I tried different mediums for the figurines and learned more throughout the process. I kept trying to push myself. The custom figures just kept evolving.
XF: What do you use to make the figures?
Harry Medina: The main material I use is a plumbing putty called pro putty.
XF: Pro Putty? I've never used that before. What is it?
Harry Medina: It's made for sealing gaps and leaks for piping. Before that, I was using sculpey.
XF: Have you ever used air dry clay?
Harry Medina: I used to use air dry clay but it was heavy and it would dry too brittle. I didn’t like it.
XF: I've had similar problems. Maybe you could try something else.
Harry Medina: There’s something called paper clay that I like and it isn’t that bad at all. But you have to build it up. It’s not too bad actually. But, when it comes to making faces, I use sculpey.
XF: How is plumber's putty different?
Harry Medina: With plumber’s putty, you have to use it quickly because it dries fast. But, it works out if you know what you’re doing.
XF: How long did it take for you to figure out this technique?
Harry Medina: I learned at my own pace. It took years to get where I am now. I’m considered self-taught. And, I like that.
XF: Do you have any shows coming up?
Harry Medina: I might be in a show at the end of the year, but I have to check on it. Other than that, I'd be happy to be in another show soon.
