This is the platform and portfolio of all current digital works and relevant material from economist turned multidisciplinary artist, Gonzalo Otaola-Cortina.
“In my search for a deeper understanding into the situation of my home country, Venezuela, I sought out answers in the field of international economics at the American University of Paris. On that path I discovered the concepts of living standards, and found the metrics used for its data short-sighted and unreliable. I gained a deeper perspective about rural vs. urban living, and the vast contrast in needs, wants, and so-called “indifference curves”. So too did my time researching and learning about development and its subsequent effects on social dynamics, resource exploits, pollution, mental health, and other considerations pushed me to subjects seemingly unrelated to economics such as courses in philosophy, French New Wave film, 18th century history of Parisian architecture, and even Islamic studies. I strongly believe that those elective courses enriched and energized my studies in investment analysis, econometrics, and the study of the recent phenomena of globalization. Although I certainly feel there is much for me to learn in the field of economics, I find that the key issues that developing countries (and developed nations face) is the rush for unsustainable growth, an unwillingness to collaborate due to restricting zero-sum mindsets, and competing visions for a healthier, richer, happier world.
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​It has been a blessing for me to learn in an environment of open dialogue. Through it I’ve discovered that in order to live in the world we wish to see, we need first to expand the tools that serve our own physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. Art and music has called on my spirit for years, and I know well how much it can support me. Though this is not a path for everyone, and thankfully so, I’ve chosen it out of my will to surrender to it regardless of the possible sacrifices that I’ve had to endure. It is my belief that in this path however, I am serving my family and community in ways that cannot be measured in any effective way or metric. Of course, I still face doubts as to the journey (and the benefits of my choices to those around me), but I feel to my core that through this chosen path, I can be my most efficient, healthiest, happiest version, and I hope that this creates a ripple of wellbeing to those around me. It is my hopes that through my lens, my art, and music, we can see the world in a more optimistic light, and remember to take a breath, with intention, before our every action.”
Aside from his art & music project, Gonzalo currently assists the community as an assistant martial arts instructor at the RDCA academy and offers wellness and mindfulness guidance externally through his methodical journey of self discovery, Ocho Puertas (Eight Gates). Gonzalo continues to seek out local partnerships for philanthropic events that can serve a greater cause.