The challenges and rewards involved in biological and cultural regeneration churn like undercurrents in the work of Alec Marin. Whether investigating the mechanisms that drive the brain’s neurorehabilitation following a stroke, teaching himself how to paint, or exploring his Chicano identity and ancient Mexica (Aztec) culture, the Oakland-based artist/neuroscientist is captivated by the discovery of connections.
These and other dimensions of Marin’s interests are on display in “All That You Change/Changes You,” an exhibition through May 2 at Mercury 20 Gallery in Oakland. Approximately 16 paintings, organized by theme more than chronologically, vary widely in what they depict, but establish strong inter-relatability by clustering around teotl. The Aztec concept of divine energy involves the ever-flowing oscillation between life’s polarized realities: day and night, birth and death, fire and water, and so on.
Born in Harlingen, Texas, Marin grew up in Brownsville, close to the Mexican border. While he drew with graphite when young, he focused on biology during high school. He pursued a bachelor’s degree from the University of St. Thomas in Houston and a doctorate from Baylor College of Medicine, then completed post-doc research at UCLA’s Department of Neurology. After publishing a few papers, Marin left academia for the private sector. The Bay Area’s high volume of biotechnology companies attracted him first to Fremont, then Oakland…