JOHAN COVA
MERGING THE HUMAN ESSENCE
WITH LIQUID FLOWS
Submergé Collection
Submergé: A Journey beneath the Surface
The Submergé Collection is a captivating exploration of the human experience as seen through the lens of water. Each piece in this collection portrays individuals immersed beneath the surface, observed from above the water, where the interplay of light and movement creates a dynamic and ethereal visual experience. As sunlight dances on the surface, the human forms within the water undergo a mesmerizing fragmentation, blurring the boundaries between realism and abstraction—a central theme that runs throughout all the pieces of this series.
The essence of this collection lies in its ability to evoke cherished moments in life. For me, many of these moments have been intimately connected to the ocean, the beach, pools, and the summer. Water, in this context, serves as a vehicle through which I connect with joy, offering a form of dissociation that transports me to a safe and serene place. Each piece is inspired by events and experiences from my life, as well as those of people close to me, making the collection profoundly personal. Water, with its ability to cleanse, transform, and heal, becomes a powerful symbol in these works, representing the journey of life itself—a journey that is at once deeply intimate and universally relatable.
This Collection is more than just a series of paintings; it is a visual language that I found to portray the narrative that weaves together the threads of personal experience, emotional depth, and universal themes of transformation and introspection. Each piece invites the viewer to immerse themselves in the soothing yet complex world beneath the water’s surface, where light, color, and form interact in ways that challenge our perceptions and evoke a sense of wonder.
Submergé stands as a testament to the power of art to capture the ephemeral beauty of life’s most cherished moments and to transform them into something timeless. It is a reminder that beneath the surface of our daily lives lies a world of depth and complexity, waiting to be explored and understood. - Johan Cova
Vacances
This artwork captures a defining moment in my life, one that marked a significant shift in how I perceive solitude and social interaction, representing a journey of self-discovery and reflecting the duality of my nature: the need for both solitude and social connection. The image of a figure submerged in water, inspired by a photograph taken by a friendly stranger I met on the beach during a solo trip to the south of France, reflects the introspective nature of that time alone and gives rise to the evocative name of the collection this piece is part of.
This journey was my first long solo trip, without the comfort of friends, family, or a partner. It was a deeply introspective experience, a rare opportunity to be truly alone with my thoughts, free from the burdens of expectations and the demands of daily life. This solitude allowed me to reconnect with parts of myself that had been overshadowed by my own designed and structured routines, enabling me to recognize how much I value my own company, despite my natural inclination to be social and surrounded by others.
Vacances was created during the height of the global pandemic, a time when isolation became a universal experience. While many struggled with the enforced solitude, I found that the endurance and peace I had discovered during my time alone in France made the experience more bearable. The solitude of the pandemic not only echoed the solitude of that trip but reinforced in me the importance of being comfortable with myself, even in challenging circumstances.
The figure in the painting, submerged in water, represents the feeling of being immersed in one's own thoughts, navigating the depths of the mind where clarity and self-awareness reside. The water, both calming and isolating, symbolizes the duality of solitude—it can be both a refuge and a challenge.
From a young age, I've always felt the need for balance between being alone and being with others. Growing up with two siblings and many friends, I cherished the time I spent alone, as it was essential in shaping my character and fostering a sense of independence. This balance between solitude and social interaction became a defining aspect of my personality, one that I carried into adulthood.
Throughout my life, I've moved countries multiple times, a process that has enriched my life experience but also required sacrifices. Each move meant leaving behind relationships and starting anew, which only deepened my appreciation for the moments of solitude where I could process these changes and maintain a sense of continuity in my life.
This artwork, with its serene yet introspective mood, serves as a reminder of the importance of finding that balance, of embracing both the quiet moments alone and the vibrant connections with others. It reflects the resilience required to navigate the ebb and flow of these states, illustrating that while solitude can be challenging, it also offers a unique opportunity for growth and self-discovery. The submerged figure, floating in the water's embrace, is not lost but rather finding a deeper understanding of itself—a journey we all must take at some point in our lives. - Johan Cova
Vacances
Acrylic on canvas / 45 x 30 inches
Splash
The creation of this piece was a deeply personal and emotional journey for me, one that encapsulates the essence of my sister—who was like a second mother to me—and the profound impact she had on my life. This artwork, completed just a week before her passing, stands as a tribute to her strength, resilience, and our complex yet loving relationship.
My sister was a woman of incredible fortitude, someone who faced a decade-long battle with a terrible illness with unwavering determination. Despite the physical toll it took on her, she remained fiercely goal-oriented, caring, and generous. Her spirit was one that could not be broken, and it is this indomitable spirit that I sought to capture in this artwork”
The image of a woman submerged in water, enveloped by swirling currents, is the central motif of this piece representing my sister, who, like the person in the artwork, was often caught in the tumultuous currents of life. The water, dark and deep, symbolizes the challenges and the relentless struggle she faced during her illness. Yet, despite being surrounded by these overwhelming forces, the figure remains present, a testament to her resilience and her refusal to be defeated by her circumstances.
The title “Splash” holds multiple layers of meaning. On the surface, it is a nod to her love for the ocean and the beach, places where she found peace and solace. Every opportunity she had, she would escape to the sea, and it was in these moments that we often found our deepest connection. The beach was our sanctuary, a place where we could leave the world behind and simply be ourselves. The splash, in this sense, represents the joy and freedom she felt in these moments, a burst of life and energy amidst the waves.
But the splash is also a metaphor for her impact on my life. Just as a splash in the water sends ripples that extend far beyond the initial point of contact, my sister's influence on me has been profound and far-reaching. Her strength, her determination, and her love have shaped me in ways that I am only beginning to fully understand. Even in her absence, the ripples of her life continue to resonate within me, reminding me of the depth of our connection.
The composition of this piece reflects the nature of our relationship—close, deep, loving, but also tumultuous. The swirling water around the figure mirrors the emotional currents we navigated together. There were moments of calm and clarity, where our love for each other was pure and uncomplicated. But there were also moments of turbulence, where misunderstandings and frustrations threatened to pull us apart. Yet, through it all, the bond we shared remained unbreakable, rooted in a deep love and mutual respect.
When I look at this piece I see my sister—not just in the figure in the water, but in every ripple, every wave, every play of light and shadow. This artwork is more than a visual representation of a moment; it is a celebration of her life, a testament to her strength, and a reflection of the love we shared. It is a reminder that, even though she is no longer with me in the physical sense, her presence continues to ripple through my life, influencing and shaping me in ways that words alone cannot express. -- Johan Cova
Splash
Acrylic on canvas / 45 x 35 inches
Sportif
This artwork explores the unavoidable and at times overwhelming challenge of dealing with societal expectations around physical appearance, particularly in a world that often values the surface over substance. The submerged figure in the image is not just a person swimming in water but a powerful symbol of the struggle to navigate the overwhelming currents of societal norms that dictate what it means to be accepted, attractive, and worthy.
From a young age, I was confronted with an unspoken yet omnipresent set of rules: to work out, to be sporty, to sculpt my body into something that others would deem desirable. These weren’t just casual suggestions; they were deeply ingrained expectations, communicated through subtle and not-so-subtle cues from peers, adults and the media. In school, the pressure to participate in sports wasn’t just about fitness; it was a social currency, the primary way to gain acceptance and prove my worth. To be a part of the group, to avoid isolation, I had to fit a specific mold—athletic, strong, with a body that conformed to the ideals of masculinity and fitness.
This pressure didn’t dissipate as I grew older; it only intensified. The expectations to look a certain way permeated every aspect of life, particularly within the gay community, where physical appearance often becomes a defining factor in social interactions and relationships. The unrelenting focus on body image can create a toxic environment where self-worth is tied to how closely one’s physique matches societal ideals. I found myself constantly battling this pressure, questioning whether I needed to conform to these standards to be seen, loved and accepted by others.
However, with time and experience, I began to see through the façade. My journey toward self-acceptance wasn’t easy, but it was transformative. I realized that my value wasn’t contingent on my appearance or how well I could fit into society’s narrow definitions of attractiveness. I started to recognize that my true worth lay in my intellectual pursuits, my professional achievements, my academic accomplishments, and, most importantly, my emotional and spiritual growth. This realization was liberating; it allowed me to break free from the chains of superficial expectations and embrace a more authentic and fulfilling sense of self.
In this artwork, the water represents the fluid, ever-changing nature of societal expectations, and the figure submerged within it is a metaphor for the struggle to stay afloat amid these pressures. The ripples and distortions in the image reflect how these pressures can warp our sense of self, making it difficult to see ourselves clearly. But there’s also a sense of movement, of the figure pushing through the water, suggesting resilience and the possibility of emerging stronger on the other side.
Ultimately, this piece is a meditation on the importance of looking beyond the surface, of recognizing that true beauty and worth are found in the depths of our character, our intellect and our spirit. It’s a call to resist the temptation to conform to societal pressures and instead embrace a more holistic, authentic, and healthy approach to life—one that values emotional and mental well-being as much as physical health, if not more. - Johan Cova
Sportif
Acrylic on canvas / 70 x 40 inches
Épuisé
This artwork represents a scary, anxious but also liberating and exciting moment in my life, one that evocates the transition from my former career as a corporate man to my current path as an artist. The image, which portrays a figure submerged in water, is not merely a visual creation but a manifestation of the complex emotions I experienced during this significant career change.
The journey into art wasn't something I had formally prepared for. I didn’t attend art school, nor did I take any structured courses in painting or drawing. My passion for art, however, has been with me since childhood, manifesting in a strong attraction to art in all its forms. Despite this enduring love for the arts, it wasn’t until 2020, amid the global pandemic, that I fully embraced this passion, previously pursued as a hobby, and allowed it to guide me into a new career.
The process behind this artwork began with a simple yet profound idea: to visually express the emotions tied to my decision to leave the corporate world. This concept took shape when I envisioned a model, dressed in a business suit, submerged underwater. The symbolism was clear to me—the water represented the overwhelming nature of corporate life, and the suit symbolized the professional identity I was leaving behind.
The inspiration for this piece draws heavily from my personal experiences during my time in the corporate sector. I spent years navigating the pressures of a high-stakes environment, where long hours, demanding clients, endless meetings, and constant communication were the norm.
Despite the challenges and pressures, I feel no regrets about my former occupation. In fact, I found it incredibly enriching in many ways. It was like a school where I learned not only the technical aspects of my profession but also the softer skills—diplomacy, formal communication, articulation, and persuasion. My career provided me with opportunities to travel, meet fascinating people, and experience diverse cultures, foods, and languages. However, the same career that offered so much also demanded too much, leading to a toxic environment filled with unspoken expectations, abuse, and exploitation.
The corporate world often traps its employees in a cycle of overwork and stress, masked by seemingly generous perks, like company-provided cellphones and credit cards. However, these perks often come with strings attached, as I quickly discovered. The constant, invasive communication from my boss, even at ungodly hours, and the expectation to use personal time and resources as company expenses were just some of the ways the corporate system blurred the lines between personal and professional life. This blurred line created an environment where anxiety became normalized, misinterpreted as duty, and ultimately eroded my passion for the work I once enjoyed.
This artwork, like my journey into art itself, is a testament to the power of introspection and the courage to embrace change. The figure submerged in water represents not just the exhaustion and weariness that comes from years of corporate life, but also the liberation and excitement that comes with breaking free from it. It symbolizes the duality of my experience—both the burden of my former career and the newfound joy of pursuing my passion. - Johan Cova
Épuisé
Acrylic on canvas / 40 x 35 inches
L´enfant
This artwork is the result of a profound self-assessment of my childhood, a time filled with moments of joy, discovery, and challenges that have shaped who I am today. The image of a child submerged in water, surrounded by the vibrant colors of a beach ball, captures the innocence and playfulness of my childhood while reflecting the deeper layers of my childhood experiences. This artwork is my attempt to view my childhood through the lens of an adult, with all the insights that come with age.
As I reflected on my memories, I realized that my childhood was largely a time of joy despite the emotional scars remaining as a result of the psychological and verbal abuse of my brother. When I think about my childhood as a whole, the joyful moments far outweigh the painful ones. This realization led me to create an image of a playful child—a celebration of the resilience and joy that defined my early years.
One of the most vivid memories of my childhood is the time spent at the beach. The beach was our sanctuary, a place where worries were carried away by the gentle waves. My family and I often spent weekends there, basking in the sun and reveling in the ocean's soothing sound. The freckles on my back and shoulders today remind me of those sun-soaked days and the happiness they brought. Growing up with easy access to the ocean was a blessing that I appreciate even more now as an adult.
Central to my childhood were the moments spent with my mom and sister. My mom was a pillar of strength, always making even the simplest activities feel special. My sister, who was like a second mom to me, played a crucial role in my upbringing. She was nurturing and protective, and we shared a close bond. Being around her and her friends, gave me a glimpse into a world beyond my years, which fascinated me.
As a sensitive child, I was acutely aware of how much my mom worked to keep our home in order. Her dedication and perseverance were not lost on me, and I admired her strength. The absence of my father made the bond with my mom and sister even stronger. My mom took on both parental roles with grace and determination, and my sister’s nurturing nature helped fill the gap. This family dynamic shaped me in profound ways, teaching me the value of love, sacrifice and discipline.
School was another significant part of my childhood. It was not just a place of learning but also one of discovery and growth. I was fortunate to attend a school that encouraged creativity and curiosity. The friendships I formed there added to the joy of my school days, making it a place I looked forward to every day. The sense of belonging and camaraderie I felt with my classmates was something I cherished deeply.
Another cherished part of my childhood was the time spent with family in the countryside, where we connected with nature by exploring rolling hills, picking fresh fruits, visiting the nearby river, and interacting with farm animals. These experiences fostered a deep appreciation for the simplicity and beauty of rural life and a lasting love for the natural world.
I celebrate with this piece the child within all of us, the type of child who has kept the spark of life alive, survived the weight of this world, and maintained playfulness and grace despite life’s challenges. That child within that gives us reasons to trust, love, be optimistic and find silver linings in difficult times. - Johan Cova
L´enfant
Acrylic on canvas / 51 x 40 inches
Bee Yourself Collection
Mystique
Mystique is a visual representation of humanity's intrinsic need to connect with something larger than ourselves—be it the divine, a superior energy or an abstract spiritual force. Through the image of a solitary figure submerged in the depths of rippling water, the artwork portraits the contradiction and ambiguity of spiritual and religious journeys.
In a very personal level, the figure's immersion in the water symbolizes—literally—a ritual suggested by an astrologer whom I trust for many good reasons. He affirmed that by doing this, I would undergo a cleansing process leading to clarity, certainty, and inner peace. For some inexplicable reason, this personal immersion in water actually creates that effect on me; whether it is my faith on the ritual or my rational - non spiritual - determination to achieve that state of mind.
I remember the moment my mother told me as a young child to keep a red string around my wrist for protection and to ward off any misfortune that could be caused by the evil eye. Her words left such an impact on me that I never forgot them. I was raised Catholic. Many years later, when studying a different spiritual doctrine, I discovered they use the same kind of red string on the wrist for the same purpose. I have realized that, despite these divisions and different names of the spiritual – religious paths, the need to connect with something greater persists and can share even the same principles and believes.
This artwork serves as a metaphor for the multifaceted nature of religion and spirituality. It represents the ever-changing, fluid path many traverse in their search for purpose and enlightenment. This piece delves into the layered intricacies of spiritual beliefs, particularly the way these beliefs are often instilled or imposed upon us from a young age by our parents or society. This imposition can lead to a complex relationship with faith—where religion and philosophies, intended to unify and guide, can instead create division and discord. Even though religions, meant to bring us closer to a higher power and to each other, frequently end up segregating us, drawing lines between communities and individuals based on differing doctrines and practices.
The search for these different spiritual doctrines has been of my personal interest mainly when I find myself wrestling with my own darkness, seeking a way to navigate the burdens of this world more easily, and ultimately, to build a better version of myself using as much wisdom and tools as these teachings can provide. On some level, we all yearn for solace, meaning, and hope beyond the tangible world. This need arises from a deep-seated desire to improve ourselves and seek guidance and reassurance in the face of life's uncertainties.
Mystique also touches upon the role of faith as a source of strength and resilience. In times of doubt, fear, or despair, many turn to their spiritual beliefs for comfort and purpose. It suggests that this connection, whether rooted in organized religion or personal spirituality, serves as a crucial anchor, helping us navigate the tumultuous waters of existence and acting as a beacon of hope in our collective human journey toward understanding and enlightenment. - Johan Cova
Mystique
Acrylic on canvas / 51 x 40 inches
Bee Yourself: A Celebration of Authenticity
Bee Yourself is a meticulously crafted collection that finds its foundation in the principles of expressionism. The essence of this series is drawn from the pursuit and celebration of authenticity. Through a nuanced examination of emotions, this collection offers a close and intimate look at the human experience, depicted through the interaction of human faces with a fluid, organic element—honey.
Each piece in this collection is a tribute to the beauty of being true to oneself. The use of honey as a motif symbolizes both the sweetness and complexity of our emotions, reflecting the depth and richness of our inner lives. By intertwining human expressions with this liquid element, the artwork encapsulates the fluidity and vulnerability inherent in genuine self-expression.
This three-piece collection aims to convey that authenticity is not only a personal virtue but also a powerful force that fosters genuine human connections. By staying true to who we are, we open ourselves up to deeper, more profound interactions with those around us. - Johan Cova
Dalilah
Dalilah
Oil on canvas / 45 x 30 inches
Adrián
Adrián
Oil on canvas / 73 x 41 inches
Dalilah Euphoria
Dalilah Euphoria
Oil on canvas / 70 x 40 inches
Liquid Collection
Liquid: A Reflection on Human Diversity
Liquid is a celebration of human diversity and collective coexistence, free from distinctions based on skin color, age, origin, gender, or any form of discrimination rooted in geographical, economic, religious, and/or cultural roots present in our societies.
Water is the unifying element in this series of five pieces, representing the natural elements that humanity needs to survive, emphasizing that any distinctions we make between ourselves, consciously or unconsciously, are reduced to the ephemeral when we develop the ability to recognize that there are no significant differences that separate us, as we all rely on the same vital elements.
This series aims to connect the emotions of the viewer with human diversity. It is, in a way, a medium for reflection that urges the observer to seek balance between their existence and that of those around them. It calls for the appreciation of beauty and validation of each individual for who they are, leaving behind preconceived ideas and particular experiences.
In summary, Liquid is a proposal that draws attention to ideologies that unfortunately are part of humanity, such as racism, ageism, the understimation of children and the intolerance towards androgynism or non-binarism. - Johan Cova
Liquid I, II, III, IV & V
 Liquid I |  Liquid II |  Liquid III |  Liquid V |
|---|---|---|---|
 Liquid IV |
All five pieces:
Black pencil on paper
35 x 24 inches
Available Paintings
For a look at Johan Cova´s 2024 Catalogue, please email info@johancova.com
L´enfant
Acrylic on canvas / 51 x 40 inches
Mystique
Acrylic on canvas / 51 x 40 inches
Collectors
Johan Cova's original paintings are in private collections all over the world. If you are interested in becoming a collector of Johan's artwork, please email info@johancova.com or send a message below to learn more.
Meet the Artist
Johan Cova, is a self-taught artist based in Mexico City, who embraces different technics, such as, acrylic, oil and pencil. Since a very young age, Cova knew he wanted to be an artist. He grew up with a love and passion for art, but decided to pursue other interests after leaving high school. By the time of pandemic (2020), Cova decided to quit his job, reconnect with drawing and painting, and begin to pursue his childhood dream of becoming an artist. In the same year, he relocated to Mexico City after leaving Buenos Aires, and had his first collective show in 2021.
Thanks to his presence on social media, Johan Cova has gained recognition for his hyperrealistic paintings and drawings and been fortunate to sell his artwork to collectors worldwide. While experimenting with a multitude of subject matters, Cova has always maintained a hyperrealistic style, attempting to create paintings that extend beyond what a photograph could ever capture focusing on the human figure interacting with liquids. "My favorite moment while painting is when a subject on my canvas merges with the surrounding liquid environment."
Currently, his main goal for his paintings is to use detail and color to create the mixed illusion of realism and abstraction on the canvas. More recently, Johan Cova has taken up a series of Medium-large scale paintings of human figures submerged in water. For any interest in collecting Cova's artwork, please email info@johancova.com
CV
PRESS PUBLICATIONS:
2021: Reforma Club Magazine - https://www.reforma.com/muestran-su-talento-en-identidades/ar2252119
EXHIBITIONS:
2021: "Identidades" - Collective Show, Sophart Gallery. Mexico City. Mexico
2021: "Day of the Dead" - Collective Show, Oscar Román Gallery - San Miguel de Allende. Mexico
2023: Collective Show, Untitled Gallery. San Luis Potosí. Mexico
2024: Collective Show. Paseo Interlomas Gallery by Art58. Mexico City. Mexico
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