“Do first, theorize after.”
Mexican sculptor Pedro Reyes is known for his works that merge classical technique, social practice, and conceptual rigor. Originally trained in architecture, Pedro Reyes has developed a belief in the functional potential of art while remaining deeply drawn to the allure of craft, play, and the transformative possibilities of form.
In this clip, the artist offers guidance to emerging artists, reflecting on the value of experimentation, making, and learning through doing, encouraging young creators to act without overthinking: “Sometimes students research a lot and they can get critical paralysis, in the sense that too much thinking can inhibit your creativity… so I would say do first, theorize after”.
Pedro Reyes emphasizes that copying is not only acceptable but an important part of artistic growth: “You should not be afraid to copy. In the end, it will turn out to be something different to what you were copying. It’s not where you take it from, but where you take it to.” “Art cannot be produced in the void without using art from the past,” he adds, emphasizing that engagement with art history is essential for any new production.
Pedro Reyes (b. 1972, Mexico City, Mexico) is a Mexican sculptor known for projects that merge art, activism, architecture, and craft. He studied architecture at the Ibero-American University in Mexico City. His work has been shown in established institutions internationally, including at the Guggenheim Museum (New York), the Whitechapel Gallery (London), and the Museo Tamayo (Mexico City) ICA (Miami), and MAAT, (Lisbon). He lives and works in Mexico City.
Pedro Reyes was interviewed by Nanna Rebekka in his studio and house in Mexico City in June 2025.
Editor and producer: Nanna Rebekka
Camera: Jarl Therkelsen Kaldan
Copyright: Louisiana Channel, Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, 2026
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