The artist in his studio. (Courtesy: Carlos Vega).

Spanish-born artist Carlos Vega explores a range of themes in his immersive work. Drawing on history, mythology, and spirituality, he engages deeper questions surrounding humanity, belief, and the interconnectedness of life. In Anima Mundi, his exhibition at Jack Shainman Gallery in New York, Vega presents nature and humanity as deeply intertwined, suffused with mystery and meaning. The large-scale works on view are meticulous and masterful, created with lead serving as a base for the precise placement of precious gemstones; painting and mixed-media assemblage also come together to create this thought-provoking, spiritually rich showcase.

Vega, who splits his time between New York City and Granada, employs nature to generate layered symbolism. Animals, trees, and mythical goddesses all represent meanings beyond what is immediately visible. A visual language gradually emerges. Historical references also play a role in the artist’s work, extending into the materials he employs. In Anima Mundi, lead provides the base for many of the pieces, functioning not only as a solid, sturdy material but also as a symbolic one. In ancient traditions, lead is associated with transformation and purification. For Vega, the material also recalls the history of alchemy, which sought to transmute base metals into gold. As he notes, “I really like lead because of its inherent links to alchemy. That crossroads of science and spirituality is a theme that is very integral to my work.” Layered within and atop the dense lead are delicate gemstones, creating a striking juxtaposition between the sturdy and the fragile—perhaps a further metaphor for life.

WHAT: Carlos Vega Anima Mundi

WHEN: March 5—April 18, 2026

WHERE: Jack Shainman Gallery, 573 West 20th Street, New York, NY

Inspired by history, Vega also incorporates archival materials—including antique ledgers, library catalog cards, postage stamps, newspapers, and labels—into his works on canvas and lead. Through these elements, he brings together fragments of the past, giving new life and meaning to historical relics. In doing so, he demonstrates how even the smallest objects can form connections. In Vega’s work, connection is ever-present.

The term Anima Mundi translates to “Soul of the World.” At its core is the idea that all matter—humans, animals, and nature—is connected by a single, unifying soul. Flora, fauna, figures, and abstract forms merge in visually compelling ways. Relationships between otherwise unrelated elements create a blurred reality that challenges conventional understandings of life on Earth while suggesting a more expansive, spiritual dimension. Vega’s engagement with the mystical and the complexity of life is evident throughout the exhibition.

Carlos Vega, Levi. 2025. Oil on lead panel, 59 1/2 x 83 3/4 x 1 1/4 inches (framed). (Courtesy: Carlos Vega). 

Reflecting on his beliefs and spiritual curiosity, Vega states: “I have always been a spiritual person, though my spirituality manifests as an appreciation of all things spiritual, not one specific dogma. I think that is a huge driving force behind my exploration of the spiritual in my work—understanding the world of the invisible, sometimes with nothing more than blind faith.”

While many of the works were created recently, Anima Mundi represents the culmination of nearly two decades of exploration. “Most of these works were made over the past two and a half years, though there are a couple that I started over twelve years ago, which I revisited and finished ahead of this exhibition. That said, as a whole, this show is really a culmination of themes and materials I’ve been exploring for the past two decades,” Vega explains.

Like every artist, Vega has a defined process. “Everything starts with an idea. Usually, I come across something while reading or researching that particularly strikes me. From there, I do more research until I decide what it is I’m going to depict. I draw rough sketches directly onto the lead before carving into it. If I want to add other elements, like stamps or gemstones, it involves a great deal of technical planning as well—but that’s too boring to get into,” he jokes.

The work invites the viewer to pause and reflect on themes of spiritual awareness, science, and humanity, shedding light on the ongoing search for meaning beyond the visible world. Vega hopes viewers will gain insight from his work. “More than anything, I hope people leave feeling uplifted. I want viewers to be open to the idea that we as humans cannot fully understand the forces around us, but that there is comfort in knowing there is something out there so wondrous.”