Art Exhibition - Renzo Ortega "Acts of Serenity"

Renzo Ortega is a contemporary painter who is also a performer, musician (of techno cumbia and punk rock) and an installation artist. Best known for his fantastical compositions which incorporate elements of mythology and popular culture, Ortega takes an entirely different approach for Acts of Serenity, turning the tradition of still life painting into a meditative practice.

Ortega begins by carefully arranging and lighting the objects on a specially constructed set in his studio. He paints in silence, integrating his breath and posture with the act of applying pigment on linen. With their subtle color gradations and painterly qualities the still-lifes showcase the mastery and immediacy of his technique, and reference inspirations both historic and contemporary. In Nirvana, an old pair of Converse sneakers and a guitar pedal become a monument to Kurt Kobain, while a hat and tulip in another honor Van Gogh’s Spirit.