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Julien Journal Intime, 2007 Acrylic on canvas 36 x 36 in.
Renowned artist Julien has cultivated an extraordinarily captivating style that serves as a profound conduit for the expression of his innermost sentiments and sensations, thereby birthing a revolutionary perspective within the realm of contemporary abstract landscape painting. Within his canvases unfolds an utterly distinctive universe, meticulously crafted in both composition and aesthetic formulation, traversing the delicate terrain of abstract impressionism’s hypersensitivity and the potent, occasionally tumultuous, force inherent to expressionist abstraction. On the global stage of artistic expression, the accomplished contemporary painter Louis Julien has seamlessly accomplished that elusive fusion so fervently sought after by artists of his ilk. Within his oeuvre, the marriage of poetic emotion and internal turmoil resonates vividly. Louis Julien displays an unparalleled prowess in pushing this ambivalence to its zenith. His canvases bear witness to the genesis of a novel evocative realm, birthed from a unique visual syntax, an exquisite amalgamation of Impressionism and Expressionism. This contemporary virtuoso has firmly established himself as a master of paradox. Within the confines of his artistry, he allegorizes a beauty akin to Dante’s, simultaneously languorous and poignant, which ensnares the beholder and beckons them into a quasi-literal rapture, transcending seamlessly from one masterpiece to another. In the early 21st century, Louis Julien’s pioneering abstractions chart uncharted territory, successfully materializing a long-awaited concept: the symbiosis of Impressionism and Expressionism, a notion harking back to the halcyon days of the New York School in the 1950s. Through his meticulously crafted paintings, he unfailingly contributes to the filling of the vast, universal, and polysemic canvas that is contemporary art. His brushstrokes gently lift the veil concealing the enigma and submerged afflictions of our modern era. The masterful strokes of his brushes now connect observers to his diverse array of canvases, forging a profound resonance with their collective subconscious, offering glimpses into a transcendental reality. In the eloquent words of Antoine Antolini, a member of the EDMC-Europe international jury, “Louis Julien’s artistic journey places one on the precipice between madness and unadulterated authenticity. What greater aspiration could one have than to dream of the fruition of an unparalleled and matchless masterpiece?” Indeed, Louis Julien’s artistic contributions serve as a beacon of inspiration and innovation in the realm of contemporary art, heralding a renaissance that reverberates across cultures and generations alike.
www.louisjulien.com louisjulienpeintre@gmail.com
Julien Journal Intime, 2007 Acrylic on canvas 36 x 36 in.
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How to collect a featured artwork? Readers interested in acquiring a featured artwork can visit the artist’s website as noted on each page. How can I work with a featured artist? Equally, art professionals can visit the artist’s website and inquire about hiring/collaborating. Contact info@circle-arts.com for all inquiries.
On the Front Cover Julien www.louisjulien.com Journal Intime Acrylic on canvas 36 x 36 in.
On the Back Cover Anthony Tremmaglia www.anthonytremmaglia.com Me To You Charcoal and acrylic 40 x 40 in.
Designed & Published in France Distributed Internationally All Rights Reserved ®
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in retrieval systems, or transmitted in any form or any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, without written permission of the publisher and copyright holders.
Circle Foundation For the Arts Press circle-arts.com
First Artist Julien www.louisjulien.com
Featured Artists JULIEN ANTHONY TREMMAGLIA CELIA CARL ANDERSON JULIA ANDRIADOU MARC ARONSON CLARE ASCH K AT H R Y N B A G W E L L VA N E S S A B A L B A C H C L A R K E BOB BENTLEY CHRISTINA BERTSOS JEAN-MARIE BIDET R. GEOFFREY BLACKBURN LY N N B O U C H A R D T R OY B U N C H JB BURKE GLENYS BUZZA M A R TA C A R C E L L E R JULIE COSGROVE MELINDA CRIDER K DEMPWOLF PAU L D E T T W I L E R PAT R I C K E G G E R LILIAN R ENGEL F O N G FA I TO R I G A G N E P H OTO G R A P H Y HARRY GIGLIO ERIC GOLDSTEIN ANNEKE HANSUM ULLA HASEN GRO HEINING IHARA D I TA J A C O B O V I T Z PAV E L K A LT YG I N ALEKSANDRA KANN-BOGOMILSKA M A S A KO K A N O AOMI KIKUCHI YO O N YO U N G K I M Y U KO KO K U B U N LIZE KRÜGER KAREN KUCHARSKI KYUNGHEE LEE LU C I N D A L E V E I L L E A N S O N L I AW DIANE LIGUORI ROGER LILEY A N D R É A LO B E L R E G I N A LO C H - E LV E R T
M O N I C A LO N C O L A M A R K LO R E T R A C Y LO V E MARVEL ANN MARING S C OT T M I L H O A N , N W S E R I K M O FJ E L L GABRIELE MUSEBRINK R I I T TA N E L I M A R K K A JEFF NEWMAN VA N E S S A O N U K M I C H E L P E L LU S RICARDO PETTERMANN LAIRES BARBARA POLLAK-LEWIS MARCELLA PONASSI J E A N -J A C Q U E S P O R R E T AINA PUTNIŅA CAROLIN RECHBERG RMOO KAREN SAFER CLAIRE SIANNA SEAMAN K L A R A S E D LO K S E N I A S E M I R O VA L AU R I S M I T H BERND STEINERT B E T S Y S T E WA R T MICAELA SUMMERS VICKI SVEDRELL S OTA R O TA K A N A M I M . S H O K I TA N A B E W I D M E R TA S S I N A R I C H R I S TO P H E R E VA N TAY LO R T H E A N G E L S FA C TO R Y SAN I D A TO N G C A R LO S V E G A R AÚ L V E G A JOSEF WEIDNER MAX WERNER MARTI WHITE MALINA WIECZOREK K I M B E R LY W U R S T E R M I C H A E L X AV I E R S U S A N Z AT T JEONG-AH ZHANG
Julien ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 8 ▫︎
Les Fondations de Demain Acrylic on canvas 36 x 36 in.
Louis Julien was honored with the prestigious Grand Trophy of Style 2023, recognizing his exceptional talent as a painter-Laureate. His remarkable works, including “Journal Intime,” “La Frontière du Temps,” “The Great Battle,” and “All the Love in the World for Ukraine,” vividly demonstrate the depth of his artistic mastery and the eloquence of his pictorial language. For Julien, the canvas is a genuine painted dialect, an extension of his heart and spirit. Each brushstroke encapsulates a fragment of life, infusing his paintings with a profound resonance that directly connects with the viewer. His ability to convey emotions through abstraction, whether evocative, symbolic, allegorical, or interpretive of reality, is nothing short of astonishing. As one of the few international artists capable of seamlessly blending impressionism and expressionism, abstraction and figuration, Louis Julien has achieved a rare feat. His art is a testament to his experience, a journey that extracts and immortalizes the deepest recesses of his emotions on canvas. Through the magic of painting, he illuminates his personal trials, forging a profound connection with the universal human experience that transcends boundaries. Julien stands as an international maestro of styles, effortlessly navigating the intricate terrain of abstract painting, from the depths of impressionistic emotion to the intensity of expressionism’s raw power. He possesses a keen understanding of the subtle nuances of figurative art, expertly manipulating them to create captivating visual narratives.
JULIEN www.louisjulien.com | louisjulienpeintre@gmail.com
▫︎ 9 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Julien
La Fugue de l’Innocence Acrylic on canvas 30 x 40 in.
Les Forgerons de l’Amour Acrylic on canvas 30 x 60 in.
Un Pas de Plus Vers Toi Acrylic on canvas 30 x 60 in.
Celia Carl Anderson ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 10 ▫︎
Imperative? Acrylic on canvas 24 x 48 in.
“Many of my works are the result of a growing disquiet I have felt with world events, national politics and a global environment out of balance. Like most figurative painters, I am interested in the symbolic and emotive power of images and the role they can play in effecting—however minimal—changes in peoples’ thinking.”
CELIA CARL ANDERSON celiacarlanderson.com
▫︎ 11 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Julia Andriadou The Veins of Dreams Acrylic and collage on canvas 100 x 80 cm
“For many years, I have painted several conscious or unconscious images of a city somewhere, here or there. ‘’Labyrinth Cities’’, ‘’Coastal Cities’’, ‘’Natural habitat’’,’’Secret Windows’’, ‘’Citadel’’ are some titles of the series in my work. Environment, threats, human loneliness, and imaginary escapes from the city are tracing my work over the last four decades. I work only with original drawings, watercolors, acrylics, or mixed media.”
JULIA ANDRIADOU www.andriadou.gr
Marc Aronson ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 12 ▫︎
Under Another Star Oil paint, iridescent, and metallic pigments on plywood veneer 25 x 30 in.
“My paintings rely on the process of redoing an image, destroying and restoring, or the “rephrasing” of a painting. This rephrasing produces a work that is rife with references to the history of its own making. A comparison might be Rome. Like a palimpsest, Rome exhibits the nuances of the history of its making. Rome exposes its own references to its past history where ancient, Byzantine, and Renaissance Rome are still visible. What all this adds up to is not only the look of aging and the revelation of the making or history of the work, but through the layers of paint an internal light is produced. It is this imagined light that is my memories of a particular place.”
MARC ARONSON http://marc-aronson.squarespace.com
▫︎ 13 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Clare Asch A Garden in Orbit #2 Acrylic on canvas over wood panel 45 x 45 in.
In her paintings, Clare Asch explores the interplay between chance and predetermined structures. Natural phenomena, such as gravity and its influence on the flow of water, hold a deep fascination for her. She also maintains a longstanding interest in mark-making. Color and tone serve as vehicles to convey emotion. This dialogue between chance, gesture, and structure forms the foundational basis of her art. Asch holds an MFA from Lesley University and a BFA from the University of Massachusetts. She is also a member of Galatea Fine Art in Boston.
CLARE ASCH clare@clareaschstudio.com
Kathryn Bagwell ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 14 ▫︎
Anne Oil on canvas 48 x 36 in.
I painted “Anne” to encourage the younger generation to pay close attention to what is happening globally to women’s rights. Henry VIII ordered Anne Boleyn, his young wife, and the subject of this piece, to be beheaded as a consequence of failing to give birth to a male heir–something that was completely beyond her control. I continue to portray people in my art because I cannot understand them in real life. My works encapsulate themes, emotions, and conundrums I encounter in everyday life – within family, friends, literature, or current events.”
K AT H R Y N B A G W E L L kbagwellart.com
▫︎ 15 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Vanessa Balbach Clarke Undeniable Thirst Mixed media on washed raw Belgian linen 41 x 50 in.
“After taking long walks in nature, I sit down, create a palette, and begin to paint the connective details that are unnoticed or seemingly invisible—the quiet transitions. These discoveries are my departure point for painting. My process involves actively encouraging paint through handwashed, wrinkled, and raw linen. Permitting paint to seep, halt, or be set free are all intentional actions; this defiance of order and the hierarchy of painting is specific, personal, and calculated.”
VA N E S S A B A L B A C H C L A R K E vbalbachclarke.com
Jean-Marie Bidet ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 16 ▫︎
Quelques Pages Oubliées, 2023 Linden wood and steel 19 x 24 x 7 cm
Born in Menton, France in 1952, Jean-Marie Bidet lives and works in Switzerland. As a self-taught artist, he expresses himself through painting, engraving, and sculpture. In his latest work, J-M Bidet has embraced a more meditative and introspective approach, particularly in a landscape style that embraces the natural world. He was awarded a Silver medal in the Mixed Media category at the XII Florence Biennale 2019 and his website has also been archived by the Swiss National Library.
JEAN-MARIE BIDET www.jeanmariebidet.ch
▫︎ 17 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Bob Bentley Leda and the Swan, 2020 Mixed media 29 x 20.5 cm
“I am an artist and filmmaker working in London. To be a professional artist was my initial ambition, but I was distracted by filmmaking - for 50 years! Now, the artwork, accomplished over a lifetime, is seeing the light of day...”
BOB BENTLEY www.bobbentley.co.uk
Christina Bertsos ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 18 ▫︎
Aphrodite Rising Marble 23 x 8 x 8 in.
“My muse is the stone. There are secrets of millennia to be uncovered and discovered. I feel as if I am breathing new life into the stone through my devotion to it. My process is one of listening and allowing as I carve, removing only what is necessary. Fluidity of expression as well as form is my intention. As I move around the piece, everything has to connect with everything else, symbolic of the totality of life and how everything works in concert.”
CHRISTINA BERTSOS www.christinabertsos.com
▫︎ 19 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Lynn Bouchard The Pain of Self Love, 2023 Digital media Prints available in various sizes
“My work is an intuitive exploration of the human emotional experience both on a personal level and a collective level. These are digital paintings created by collaging and layering photographed fabric and drawing and painting on top of that. I work intuitively, and like dreams, they mysteriously form from my deep subconscious, often with hidden meaning.”
LY N N B O U C H A R D lynnbouchardart.com
R. Geoffrey Blackburn ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 20 ▫︎
Indian Summer Oil on linen 28 x 36 in.
“I want you to step through the surface of the painting and into the scene - and feel like you are actually there. I want you to smell the desert flora and feel the crunch of the sand under your boots everywhere you look, there’s something new to discover.
R. GEOFFREY BLACKBURN www.rgeoffreyblackburn.com
▫︎ 21 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ R. Geoffrey Blackburn Canyon Jewel Oil on linen 50 x 38 in.
The meticulous detail in my work makes this possible. With looser more “painterly” work, the viewer is stopped at the surface of the painting. I paint “thin”– using very little paint, layering thin transparent colors on top of each other so you can “peer into” the rock.”
Troy Bunch ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 22 ▫︎
Mother Nature Oil on linen 22 x 28 in.
“I’ve liked to draw and paint for as long as I can remember (which is probably the reason I ended up working as an illustrator, commercial artist, and graphic designer for most of my life). I enjoy the challenge of making my paintings look “real,” but I also want to represent something you’d probably never see in the natural world. I guess the best way to describe my work would be to call it imaginative realism, fantasy, or even surrealism.”
T R OY B U N C H http://troybunch.com
▫︎ 23 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ JB Burke Coyote Susurra en la Oscuridad (Coyote Whispers in the Dark) Digital painting (Procreate) on heavyweight glossy canvas 18 x 30 in.
“This work explores identity and consequence. The skulls represent the fragility of the balance between strong and weak; they also have Mexican cultural associations with Dia de los Muertos, border crossing, and trickster folklore. Marigold’s fragrance and color are said to lead souls from their burial place to their family homes. The coyote has been associated with death and rebirth, but it also symbolizes cleverness, resilience, and transition.”
JB BURKE www.JessicaBurkeArtist.com
Glenys Buzza ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 24 ▫︎
Untitled Conte chalk 55 x 47 cm
“Faced with a sheet of beautiful white paper and a stick of conte chalk, there are no escape routes, no ways to disguise, no distractions, and no second chances—just purity. The paper can be soft and yielding or hard and brittle, smooth or textured, and the conte chalk can glide or drag over it. Fingers can explore the possibilities. Empathy with the model, with the desire to depict the unadorned human form, is paramount. How exciting to draw a line and start the journey!”
GLENYS BUZZA www.glenysbuzza.com
▫︎ 25 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Julie Cosgrove Skyline Series and Bloom Acrylic on canvas 60 x 36 in.
“My practice develops from an external, technological experience of place, as well as from an internal and poetic experience of space. My work explores themes of navigation, concepts of place, wilderness, cartographies, technologies, and processes.”
JULIE COSGROVE www.juliecosgrove.com
Marta Carceller ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 26 ▫︎
Playing in The Beach Acrylic on canvas 100 x 100 cm
Marta Carceller’s painting acquires its own singular sign in the dialectical interplay between figuration and abstraction. On one hand, the artist approaches the shapes of Spanish realism that emerged during the 1980s through a broad thematic range, encompassing the human figure, still lifes, and both urban and natural landscapes. On the other hand, this entire figurative structure is heightened through the exploration of abstraction’s inherent resources.
M A R TA C A R C E L L E R www.martacarcellerart.com
▫︎ 27 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Marta Carceller Pequeñas Confidencias Acrylic on canvas 160 x 100 cm
Melinda Crider ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 28 ▫︎
Rabbit Spirit II Clay, underglaze, copper wash_15 x 12 x 8 in.
“Mysterious mythological characters, guardians, guides, and goddesses are aspects of what lie beneath my work. Images formed from dreams to realities create the elements of surprise and mystery that characterize my ceramic sculptures. Figurative hybrids combined with mixed media materials are also emphasized if they fit the narrative. Every piece has a story to tell, a historical reference, or a response to a personal experience, either social or political.”
MELINDA CRIDER www.melindacrider.com
▫︎ 29 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ K Dempwolf Live Oak Refections Oil on canvas 16 x 24 in.
“My painting efforts are focused on artists of the past, such as Childe Hassam, William Wendt, and William Ritschel. Their art has substance; it’s timeless and will be appreciated forever.”
K DEMPWOLF www.dempwolf.com
Paul Dettwiler ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 30 ▫︎
Helsinki Cathedral Through Sofiegatan Oil/tempera on canvas 75 x 75 cm
Paul Dettwiler is a Doctor of Philosophy, architect, and fine art painter. His current research project is titled “Magic Space Between Buildings.” It involves studying well-known and historic city centers where the passage of time and the spaces between buildings inspire storytelling and open interpretation. Dettwiler employs a technique reminiscent of the ancient masters, using multiple layers of oil paint and tempera.
PAU L D E T T W I L E R https://thincso.wordpress.com
▫︎ 31 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Patrick Egger Coup de Chaud sur la Mer de Glace (Heatwave on the Sea of Ice) Acrylic on canvas 60 x 80 cm
“By painting landscapes in a figurative manner, up to hyperrealism, my art appears to be faithful to the visible world while also being in harmony with a feeling that I seek to magnify and convey. The focus often revolves around indirect light, which imparts a distinctive atmosphere to the subject.”
PAT R I C K E G G E R artpegger.jimdofree.com
Fong Fai ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 32 ▫︎
Abstract.7.4-23 Acrylic on canvas 48 x 36 in.
“I use free-spirited strokes of color to paint my abstract compositions.”
F O N G FA I www.fongfai.com
▫︎ 33 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Lilian R Engel Harlequin Marble 14 x 10 x 7 in.
“I create expressive, sculptural forms from natural materials, drawing inspiration from both nature and the human figure, yet venturing toward abstraction. The idiosyncrasies of each piece of stone or wood present unique technical and creative opportunities. I approach this through a blend of intuitive processes and calculated design solutions. My goal is to unveil the spirit within each piece, whether it embodies dynamic movement or contemplative stillness. I employ pneumatic and electrical tools, finishing the work by hand.”
LILIAN R ENGEL www.lilianrengel.com
Tori Gagne Photography ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 34 ▫︎
In The Magnolias Archival pigment print 16 x 24 in.
“Inspired by the imperiled wild horse population, wild horse sanctuaries, horse rescues, my affinity for the natural world, and my previous career in garden design, I utilize my original images of wild horses and the natural world. Employing camera movement, multiple exposures, and digital composite techniques, I create impressionistic photographs that celebrate the unique, delicate, and imperiled beauty of the natural world.”
TO R I G A G N E P H OTO G R A P H Y www.torigagnephotography.com
▫︎ 35 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Harry Giglio Gillian Digital photograph
Harry Giglio is a photographer and videographer, specializing in captivating commercial imagery. His expertise shines in education, medicine, corporate, and lifestyle photography, where he skillfully uncovers the unique and creative facets of individuals and surroundings. A true master of portraiture, Harry establishes an immediate and enduring rapport with his subjects. Through his lens, he transforms ordinary moments into timeless and evocative images, thanks to his remarkable command of lighting and composition. Harry Giglio’s work transcends the ordinary, leaving a lasting impression that lingers like a haunting melody.
HARRY GIGLIO www.harrygiglio.com
Eric Goldstein ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 36 ▫︎
Shattered Mixed media 32 x 42 in.
“My work celebrates nature’s unbounded spaces by distilling the basic elements of line, color, and texture from the West Coast landscapes around me. My intent is to capture the pondering presence we derive from nature, not as it appears but as it feels to experience: incomprehensible, indescribable, and often very chaotic. Unconventionally constructed with various colored fibers, metal foils, and glass tiles, my painted canvases express poetic narratives with kinetic energy.”
ERIC GOLDSTEIN www.ericgoldsteinart.com
▫︎ 37 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Anneke Hansum Foro Romano, Rome Etching, aquatint on 300 gr. Hahnemühle paper
Anneke’s artistic journey is marked by a perpetual quest for diverse styles. At times, her creations are rooted in realism, while in others, they unfold in striking and unexpected compositions. She holds a degree in Graphic Art from the Academy of Art in Turnhout, where she honed her skills and crafted a collection of finely detailed etchings. In her oil and acrylic paintings, Anneke seamlessly merges the realms of Graphic Art and her chosen subject matter. Her distinctive approach has garnered her several accolades, including first prizes and notable nominations in both painting and graphic art. She has been a featured artist in numerous group and solo exhibitions, showcasing the breadth of her artistic talent.
ANNEKE HANSUM www.annekehansum.com
Ulla Hasen ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 38 ▫︎
Untitled (0991) Acrylic on paper 50 x 50 cm
“My artistic work is driven by the quest for resonance as a way of being. Initially, it is an unintentional, playful, and unthemed creation from the void, wherein traces of the familiar surface from the body’s memory. Consequently, my pictorial worlds frequently explore this boundary realm where recognizable elements like landscapes and scenes emerge from the abstract or empty surface.”
ULLA HASEN IG@ulla_hasen_wien
▫︎ 39 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Gro Heining In Times of the Phoenix Acrylic and pen on canvas 70 x 70 cm
Nature serves as Gro Heining’s foremost wellspring of inspiration. When she paints, Gro enters a meditative realm, forging a profound connection with the elements and the natural cadence of the world around her. In this ethereal state, she seamlessly intertwines dreams and visions, birthing captivating artwork. For Gro, the essence of creating art is rooted in the desire to convey the intricate interconnection that binds all facets of existence, from the minutiae of life to the vast expanse of the universe itself. She sees her art as an instructive force, enlightening viewers by imparting the universal language of colors, all while nurturing hope for a brighter future.
GRO HEINING https://gro-heining.no
Ihara ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 40 ▫︎
Flame Dance Installation
“Since July 2012, I have been creating land art using standing trees that grow in the mountains (forests) and thinned wood (cypress and cedar). I create a space that is in harmony between nature and man-made objects. The space of the work continues to evolve as the plants grow.”
IHARA www.eco-sculpture.org
▫︎ 41 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Dita Jacobovitz One Shot Oil on paper 70 x 90 cm
“The possibility of inventing a new landscape, without being bound to reality but with roots in it. The fact that the view is endless hypnotizes me and draws me further and further into the distant landscapes.”
D I TA J A C O B O V I T Z https://ditasart.com | IG@ditasartdotcom
Aleksandra Kann-Bogomilska ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 42 ▫︎
Sailing on The Acheront River Bronze and marble 102 x 50 x 70 cm
“For me, art was and still remains a value that cannot be explained. It profoundly influences our subconscious and the shaping of our humanity. The pursuit of the intangible (spirituality, mysticism) in a tangible form is a creative process, a continuous exploration, a quest for the secret of life. It is simultaneously my passion, a kind of daily breath.”
ALEKSANDRA KANN-BOGOMILSKA www.artmajeur.com/aleksandrakb
▫︎ 43 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Masako Kano Frida’s Kimono Photograph 40 x 60 cm
“Red is often used as the color of the inner lingerie of traditional kimonos. I find the courage of the red color and the sensuality hidden within it. My daughter, who is a third-culture kid with a British father and Japanese mother, growing up in Buenos Aires, her inner red kimono lingerie for her 7th-year celebration of a girl’s birth in Japan, is flying so freely, much like Frida Kahlo’s Mexican Costume on a New York balcony, symbolizing freedom and love.”
M A S A KO K A N O https://www.masakokano.com
Aomi Kikuchi ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 44 ▫︎
Suffering Being Born-1 Mohair yarn/ Pra Pad 40 x 30 x 20 cm
“I make sculptures, wall pieces, and garments using textiles and found objects. The source of inspiration is Japanese aesthetics: wabi-sabi (imperfection) and mono no aware (sympathy), and Buddha’s philosophy: impermanence, insubstantiality, and suffering. My work addresses infinity as the succession of fleeting activities. I combine acquired knowledge and experimentation to create new perspectives and innovative art. I believe that art can make the world a better place.”
AOMI KIKUCHI www.aomikikuchi.com
▫︎ 45 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Yoonyoung Kim The Solar System - From Home Planet Machine learning, digital print and acrylic paint on canvas 80.3 x 80.3 cm
“In a chaotic world, I strive to find an oasis—a place devoid of external stimuli, allowing for pure meditation. I perceive the universe as just such a sanctuary. However, accessing this retreat appears elusive, even with advanced technology, which ironically epitomizes this fast-paced world. I have channeled this contradiction into my work, employing AI algorithms to create collages. In contrast, I have incorporated hand-drawn images, symbolizing pure human instinct, crafting my oasis through inner tranquility and liberation.”
YO O N YO U N G K I M www.yoonyoung.com
Yuko Kokubun ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 46 ▫︎
Something is passing by that divides us Collage
“In my “Earth Theater” series, I re-imagine the dramas that unfold among humans and organisms, transforming them into theatrical interpretations infused into my paintings. To me, collage is akin to a meticulous dissection, blending together elements both laden with meaning and devoid of it. In a way reminiscent of rearranging props on a narrow stage, shapes entwine and interact with one another, engaging in a captivating play of form and symbolism.”
Y U KO KO K U B U N http://yukokokubun.com
▫︎ 47 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Pavel Kaltygin Deprem Inspired by the aftermath of the 2023 earthquake in Turkey, emphasizing the idea of mutual help through a touching episode involving a boy and a parrot rescued from the debris.
Pavel Kaltygin earned his Master’s degree in Monumental Sculpture from St. Petersburg’s Repin Academy of Fine Arts in 2017. His primary mediums are bronze, ceramics, porcelain, and stone. Thematically, his artworks often delve into contemporary socially significant events and phenomena. Kaltygin’s sculptures have been showcased in solo and group exhibitions across various international locations, including Moscow, St. Petersburg, Rome, Lahti, and Tokyo. Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, he relocated to Turkey, where he now resides.
PAV E L K A LT YG I N pashakaltygin@gmail.com | IG@pavel_kaltygin
Lize Krüger ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 48 ▫︎
You Won’t Break Her Digital media
“I believe in the power of creativity to spark and serve as a catalyst for change. My work involves transforming everyday, mundane objects and more complex social activities into thought-provoking pieces that shed light on critical social issues. By incorporating elements of surprise and juxtaposition, I aim to raise awareness about mental health, address injustices, and ignite conversations that challenge societal norms.”
LIZE KRÜGER www.lizekrugerfineart.com
▫︎ 49 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Karen Kucharski Water Cross Acrylic paint on wooden cross support 24-1/4 x 30 x 1-1/8 in.
“Some things so pure will never be destroyed, no matter how vulnerable they may seem. They persist, they learn, they grow and thrive. We can grow with them. My art is designed to engage viewers beyond the image itself, to inquire on an intangible level about themselves and their world.”
KAREN KUCHARSKI www.KarenKucharski.com
Kyunghee Lee ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 50 ▫︎
Coincidental Inevitability 2395 - Conversation, 2023 Wood engraving, muk, collage, Korean paper 72 x 103 cm
“My paintings symbolize the genuine fears and anxiety that innocent children would endure if their dreams of a peaceful and joyous Earth were shattered by the terror of overhead nuclear missiles and bombers. They juxtapose the anxiety-inducing symbols of war against images of carefree youth who bless our world with humor, happiness, and serenity.”
KYUNGHEE LEE lkh.gallery25.co.kr | IG@graver0520
▫︎ 51 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Kyunghee Lee Coincidental Inevitability 2394 - Innocence, 2023 Wood engraving, muk, collage, Korean paper 68 x 99 cm
Lucinda Leveille ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 52 ▫︎
Forest Giants Oils on canvas 60 x 120 cm
“I believe my work tells a story; that story explains my environment, my surroundings, my timeline - my life in brush strokes.”
LU C I N D A L E V E I L L E https://lucindastudio.com.au
▫︎ 53 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Anson Liaw Blossoming Together (Version 2) Chalk pastels, pencil, compressed charcoal, ink on Arches BFK Rives archival print-making and drawing paper and digital media 28 x 40 in.
“I feel I am useless as an artist when I am happy. Pain is what creates my artwork. The painful experiences that people go through as they journey through life in the world around us from childhood to adulthood which in many ways is full of chaos and hardship are what sparks and motivates me to possess my objectives to make purposeful artwork that hopefully generates meaningful and fulfilling empathetic connections to people. As I observe and interpret the world around me combined with creating my artwork, I discover time and time again that true beauty lies within the darkness and that sometimes nightmares are the birthplace of some of the best ideas for an artist.”
A N S O N L I AW www.illoz.com/liaw
Diane Liguori ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 54 ▫︎
Saison d’Etre Oil on panel 10 x 10 in.
“I am an expressive, contemporary realist who is compelled to capture the downright marvelous real, flaws and all. Known for an intriguing balance of sensitivity and boldness, I am drawn to the haunting beauty of transitions and the strength in vulnerability. I believe all things have an inherent beauty exactly as created, and it is up to us to find it. It is especially delightful when my work lets others connect more deeply with the beauty of the natural world, with each other, and with themselves.”
DIANE LIGUORI https://linktr.ee/dliguoriartandstory
▫︎ 55 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Roger Liley Nice, Promenade des Anglais Acrylic on canvas 16 x 12 in.
“My interest in contemporary portraits began as an art student at Stoke-on-Trent School of Art in the 1970s when I saw David Hockney’s Californian work at the Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool. I aim to capture the positive inner spirit of my subjects – celebrities, politicians, family, and friends. Mainly figurative, my paintings seek to represent the joy of life through vibrant brushwork, line, tone, gesture, and color. Two latest works have been acquired by Soho House, and after a successful exhibition at The Brick Lane Gallery, London, I am currently working towards Art San Diego, California.”
ROGER LILEY https://www.rogerliley.com
Regina Loch-Elvert ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 56 ▫︎
Abstract Space Oil on paper 38 x 50 cm
“I am mixing oil paint on canvas and apply the oil paint with energetic brushstrokes of intense colors and shades of light and dark, achieving spatial relations of amorphous shapes and lines. I add and change the composition until the painting achieves a certain stage that inspires me and I hope will inspire the viewer too. I compare this state to listening to music. My painting style is influenced by the Abstract Expressionists. In my studio, it is just me and the painting,”
R E G I N A LO C H - E LV E R T www.reginalochelvert.com
▫︎ 57 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Andréa Lobel Late Summer (Nina), 2023 Digital photograph 50 x 70 cm
“In my work, I communicate my observations, which can be vivid stimuli, sometimes bottled up for months. A facial expression or an evocative scenery that is hard to capture in words. By slightly altering, exaggerating, or choosing an unusual point of view, I try to create joined attention with the viewer. My photography is in black and white. I feel it strengthens the focus and leaves the observation somehow timeless.”
A N D R É A LO B E L www.andrealobel.nl
Monica Loncola ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 58 ▫︎
Receive Oil on canvas 30 x 30 in.
“I paint objects from the world around me in a dreamlike state of recollection as a metaphor for the human condition. The juxtaposition of shapes creates a dialogue open to interpretation by the viewer. I find myself stopped in my tracks by the subconscious familiarity of a subject and feel compelled to create a painting or drawing to capture the ephemeral essence I first felt at the point of inspiration.”
M O N I C A LO N C O L A www.MonicaLoncola.com
▫︎ 59 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Mark Lore Wachusett Trail Oil on canvas 24 x 30 in.
“As a contemporary landscape painter, my work is a conscious and intuitive play of color and texture. My oil and acrylic works depict seasonal New England scenes with a bold, tactile, evocative, expressionist palette, using a variety of tools and techniques that blur and blend the lines of abstraction and realism.”
M A R K LO R E http://mark-lore.pixels.com
Tracy Love ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 60 ▫︎
Heavy Metal Watercolor on paper 76 x 56 cm
“I paint portraits, landscapes, and still life—inspired by the people I meet, the places I visit, and the things I like. I’m inspired as well as challenged by creating something interesting, even beautiful, out of what can be perceived as mundane.”
T R A C Y LO V E www.obsidianlime.com
▫︎ 61 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Marvel Ann Maring Bardo #19 Mixed media collage 22 x 30 in.
“In 2018, discouraged by the tired, self-conscious, overwrought paintings I had been creating, I felt stuck and believed that something had to change. I decided to rethink my previous work and use it in a new way to break through to something lively and joyful. Ironically, the act of destruction allowed me to rediscover a sense of wholeness in my latest work. I turned to failed pieces, cutting them and transforming them into new works.”
MARVEL ANN MARING www.marvelmaring.studio
Scott Milhoan, NWS ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 62 ▫︎
Lotus in January Watercolor 14 x 14 in.
“My fascination with the fluidity and translucent qualities of watercolors allows me to create poetic and evocative works, capturing impressions and fleeting moments. Often, these paintings explore themes of natural and built environments, abstraction, contemplation, and the transient nature. Ultimately, my goal is to evoke an emotional response and foster an intimate connection between people and the ethereal quality of my paintings.”
S C OT T M I L H O A N , N W S scott@cnmstudio.com
▫︎ 63 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Erik Mofjell Shelter Fine art print limited edition 73 x 49 cm
“My pictures are created from my imagination about emotions and feelings. They are all narrative and metaphorical, and their meanings are not always evident, neither to the viewer nor to myself; they are rather enigmatic and obscure. I like it when a dialogue takes place between myself and my own subconscious, and they require some time to interpret. Each viewer can interpret and read the pictures in their own way.”
E R I K M O FJ E L L https://artportable.com/profile/@erik.mofjell
Gabriele Musebrink ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 64 ▫︎
Change, Series 4, no.4 Fresco-limestone, pigments on canvas 110 x 160 cm
“Life is in constant movement.”
GABRIELE MUSEBRINK https://gabriele-musebrink.de/en
▫︎ 65 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Jeff Newman Art Gallery in Dreamtown Oil on canvas 20 x 14 in.
“People often talk about their dreams. In this series, I turned inward with a desire to express my dreams on canvas. I’m not a poet. I’m a painter.” Jeff Newman explores the relationship between Darwinian evolution and art. He believes that artists’ use of the internet represents a significant shift in human culture, with implications for human evolution.
JEFF NEWMAN https://jeffnewman.art
Riitta Nelimarkka ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 66 ▫︎
Apollon and Inter Continental Playing Chess Velvet gobeline 110 x 130 cm
Riitta Nelimarkka is a prolific artist and author with a diverse body of work spanning 20 books, including art books, children’s literature, and poetry. She is also an accomplished animator, having created several animated films. Her artistic journey has been marked by significant exhibitions at prestigious venues worldwide, including the Amos Anderson Art Museum and Kunsthalle Helsinki in Finland, the Wäinö Aaltonen Museum in Turku, the Hallwyl Museum in Stockholm, the Museo de la Nacion in Lima, and notable exhibitions in Hannover, Los Angeles at the FIDM Museum, as well as at La Maison de l’Amerique de Monaco and Maison de l’Europe
R I I T TA N E L I M A R K K A www.nelimarkka.com
▫︎ 67 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Riitta Nelimarkka Rabbit and An Art Rabbit Wool relief 230 x 190 x 3 cm
Vanessa Onuk ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 68 ▫︎
Evening Illusion Illustration
Vanessa Onuk’s artistic process revolves around a meticulous and intricate approach to her paintings. She employs a heavily layered technique primarily using transparent acrylics on canvas, with a preference for pure linen as her canvas surface. A notable aspect of her work is the deliberate emphasis on blurring silhouettes and forms, a technique chosen to capture the subjective perspective inherent in representing landscapes. Her artistic method involves a skillful amalgamation of sharp lines and seamlessly blended color gradients, creating a dynamic interplay between these elements. Additionally, she often incorporates freely flowing colors using a wet-on-wet technique, further enhancing the expressive and immersive quality of her artwork.
VA N E S S A O N U K www.vanessaonuk-studios.com
▫︎ 69 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Michel Pellus Black and White in Color Oil on canvas 90 x 36 in.
Michel Pellus boasts a remarkable artistic career that has flourished for over five decades, solidifying his status as a distinguished realist painter. As a self-taught artist, Pellus has honed his craft with a strict focus on the mediums of oil and lithography. Over the course of these 50+ years in the art world, his creations have found their way into the esteemed collections of numerous private and public collectors across North America. Notably, Pellus’s work has been prominently featured in renowned institutions, including the Musee D’Arts Contemporain de Montreal and the Musee National des Beaux-Arts du Quebec. His art has even graced the hallowed halls of the Louvre in Paris, a testament to the international recognition and acclaim his oeuvre has garnered.
M I C H E L P E L LU S MichelPellus@gmail.com
Ricardo Pettermann Laires ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 70 ▫︎
Arabesques, 2023 Oil on canvas 89 x 116 cm
“In my style of painting, there is no sketch. My creative process is the antithesis of intellectual work, to the point that I sometimes surprise myself with the results. Ideas emerge during this process, and the muse, when it appears, is actively engaged in creation. The idea unfolds during the process, with the unconscious mind working freely. This is a world of non-representation, an art that has shed its forms. It’s a type of painting that revolves around emotions, dreams, and overlapping memories.”
RICARDO PETTERMANN LAIRES IG@ricardo.laires
▫︎ 71 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Barbara Pollak-Lewis Kathy-Fire Oil on canvas 36 x 48 in.
“I primarily work with oils on canvas. As a young child, I was influenced by the second-wave feminism of the 1970s and the growing ecology movement, which focused on our relationship with nature and the planet. My ‘Disaster’ series, in particular, addresses the catastrophic California wildfires.”
BARBARA POLLAK-LEWIS www.barbarapollakart.com
Marcella Ponassi ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 72 ▫︎
Burning Dandelion Flower Digital photograph
Marcella Ponassi, born in 1981 in Novi Ligure, Alexandria, discovered her passion for photography at a young age. She honed her skills through various courses, with a primary focus on capturing the beauty of nature and contributing her talents to weddings. Her work has graced both solo and group exhibitions in private venues, both in Italy and internationally.
MARCELLA PONASSI FB@fotomacy | IG@fotomacy
▫︎ 73 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Aina Putniņa Beginning of Autumn, 2022 Acrylic on paper 35,8 x 42 cm
“The primary means of expression in my works are color and tone contrasts, which shape the emotional mood of the painting. I believe that what I’m seeking is harmony, and perhaps at times, I’ve managed to find that balance, only to lose it again. This journey is unique to me, during which I’ve experienced revelations and emotions, some of which I’ve attempted to convey in my paintings.”
AINA PUTNIŅA IG@ainaputnina2
Jean-Jacques Porret ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 74 ▫︎
Reve Nocturne Cast Bronze, Edition of 3. H. 19 .5 in
“Each of my creations carries significant sentiment and inherent symbolism. While my work is stylistically figurative, it centers not on the human form itself but on the emotions and ideas it evokes. The inspiration is mirrored in the dynamic tension that flows through the fluid curves. My work exudes an abstract aura, inviting the observer to recognize the familiar human form.”
J E A N -J A C Q U E S P O R R E T www.jjporret.com
▫︎ 75 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Jean-Jacques Porret Promiscuous Cast bronze, Edition of 3, H. 19 ½ in.
Carolin Rechberg ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 76 ▫︎
State of Being, 2022 Aquarelle and pencil on vintage paper 29 x 35 cm
Carolin Rechberg is a truly interdisciplinary artist who places paramount importance on the multi-sensory experience intrinsic to her creative process. Her work is deeply rooted in the profound insights it yields and how these insights enrich one’s presence in and connection with life. Rechberg’s impressive academic background includes a BFA, MFA, and EdM in Art and Art Education. As an independent artist, she operates on an international scale, exploring an array of mediums that encompass Ceramics, Drawing, Installation, Illustration, Painting, Performance, Printmaking, Photography, Poetry, Sculpture, Textiles, and Voice Works
CAROLIN RECHBERG www.carolinrechberg.com
▫︎ 77 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Carolin Rechberg In Communion with Presence, 2022 Performance in Manhattan, New York, Video still
Rmoo ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 78 ▫︎
Became Dragon Mixed media on Japanese paper on canvas 53 x 65 cm
“My work revolves around revelation, clouds, and freedom. Mainly plain oil paintings.”
RMOO https://lit.link/Rmoo
▫︎ 79 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Claire Sianna Seaman Boston Climate Strike, September 20, 2019 Oil on canvas 24 x 36 in.
“My work delves into the human connection with the natural world by examining everyday, often ordinary, moments. Discovering beauty in everything, from commodity chains to the energy crisis, is crucial if we aspire to be resilient in a changing world. I find satisfaction in elevating these contemporary phenomena onto a pedestal—a form of American realism for the Anthropocene.”
CLAIRE SIANNA SEAMAN www.clairesianna.com
Karen Safer ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 80 ▫︎
American Coffee Shop Digital photograph 24 x 18 in.
Karen Safer is a multifaceted artist, poet, and musician deeply connected to Los Angeles, where her creative journey took root as early as the age of 3 when she first embraced a camera and crayons. Growing up amidst California’s vibrant landscapes, she was immersed in the rich tapestry of light, palm trees, the ocean, music, and vernacular architecture. Her artistic upbringing was further enriched by her father’s photography and her mother’s fervor for knowledge and travel, which together forged her distinct aesthetic. Karen holds a Master’s degree in Art and has enjoyed a successful career in design and architecture. With 12 solo exhibitions to her credit and a portfolio displayed in 260 national and international gallery/museum exhibitions, her art has graced a global audience. Her travels, spanning an impressive 230 countries and territories, serve as a wellspring of diverse inspiration for her work. At its core, Karen’s art is an exploration of beauty and timelessness, a testament to her unwavering creative vision.
KAREN SAFER www.artfocusin.com
▫︎ 81 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Karen Safer Marigold Wall, Gorée, Senegal Digital photograph 14 x 21 in. (The original image has been slightly cropped to fit)
Ksenia Semirova ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 82 ▫︎
Lady Slipper Gold, Tropical Garden Series Mixed hand embroidery techniques 20 x 30 cm
Ksenia Semirova is a hand embroidery artist whose creations have caught the eye of art enthusiasts with their unique and captivating qualities. Exploring the depths of emotions and blending various contexts, her artwork offers viewers a journey into the realm of personal experience, dreams, and memories. With an MA in Textiles from the University of Brighton and a portfolio exhibited in group shows across the UK, Europe, and America, Ksenia is gaining both local and international recognition, as well as a growing following.
K S E N I A S E M I R O VA https://semirova.com
▫︎ 83 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Klara Sedlo Little Girl with Dog Oil on canvas 130 x 100 cm
Klara is a figurative painter living and working in Prague, Czechia. She finished her studies at the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague in 2020 with a Master’s degree and has been actively participating in numerous exhibitions in her home country and abroad. She focuses on symbolic depictions of situations, persons, feelings, or objects. She paints the world around her using significant contemporary elements and a bit of sad or scary feeling that is common to all of us. She also likes to insert absurd jokes and moments into the paintings as well – so the result is not only scary or weird but also funny in a way.
K L A R A S E D LO https://klarasedlo.com
Lauri Smith ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 84 ▫︎
Night Flower Forton MG, resin, foam, dried flowers, pastels 30 x 25 x 60 cm
“I am an Australian sculpture artist influenced by Magic Realism and Surrealism. Through my art, I am drawn to explore my subconscious state and bring it to the physical realm through form. These sculptures are usually inspired by my bizarre and vivid dreams. My curiosity lies in the non-physical entities that emerge from the subconscious and their connection to reality.”
L AU R I S M I T H laurismithcreatures.com
▫︎ 85 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Bernd Steinert Winter: Variation 5 Oil on canvas 30 x 30 cm
“Stories of political power and of day-to-day politics do not particularly interest me. There are too many imposed patterns and simplified versions of the truth in play. I find the subjective approach much more fruitful. My pictures are not simple to read. Already in their technical realization, they are too complex for easy access. Whenever I realize that a picture is becoming too harmonious and slick, I intervene and destroy what is pleasing.”
BERND STEINERT https://mitglieder.bbk-sachsenanhalt.de/bernd-steinert
Micaela Summers ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 86 ▫︎
Summer of ‘23 Mixed media 60 x 80 cm
“I search for the colors and different hues in many of the things I encounter during my day. It is a habit which I have developed during the years since my very first art lesson. When I see a landscape or a scene which captures my attention, I have this urge feeling to recreate it in my own words and colours. Inspired by nature, places I have visited or lived in, I mostly work with oil paints. My artwork tends to be Realistic. However, sometimes I lean to a more “Naïve” art; I find it innocent, calming and peaceful”.
MICAELA SUMMERS www.micaelasummersartist.com
▫︎ 87 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Betsy Stewart Fontis Diptych Acrylic and sumi ink on wood 5 x 5 x 5 in.
“I create paintings of microscopic and macroscopic nature: origins of life from a drop of water to systems in the vast cosmos I honor the words of the naturalist John Muir: “when we tug at a single thing in nature we find that it is attached to the rest of the world”.”
B E T S Y S T E WA R T www.betsystewart.com
Vicki Svedrell ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 88 ▫︎
The Kingfisher Watercolour 22 x 30 cm
“Painting is like embarking on a journey, delving deep into the very essence of the subject itself. My art leaves the door wide open for free interpretations by the viewer, possibly invoking a memory, a dream, or a sentiment.”
VICKI SVEDRELL vickiskonst@gmail.com
▫︎ 89 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ M. Shoki Tanabe Antonio Carlos Jobim Acrylic, graphite, and oil pastel on wood 48 x 36 in.
“I respond to the idea that people’s identities are a synthesis of their memories and lived environments. The visual representations of these two elements coincide to construct an ephemeral tapestry, meant to represent, on one hand, the subconscious trappings of awareness and being, and on the other, a mapping of both familiar and unfamiliar territory.”
M . S H O K I TA N A B E matthewshokitanabe.com
Sotaro Takanami ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 90 ▫︎
Field Flowers Oil on canvas 29 x 36 in.
“These artworks belong to the Field Flowers series, crafted solely with oil paint dots. Each piece carries a weight of approximately 30 kg. Starting in January 2024, I am honored to announce my retrospective exhibition at the prestigious Takashimaya Archives. This landmark event, the first solo exhibition by an artist in Takashimaya’s 113-year history, fills me with a profound sense of responsibility and a touch of pressure. Nevertheless, I remain steadfast in my dedication to my daily routine, striving to push my creative boundaries to their utmost limits.”
S OTA R O TA K A N A M I https://circle-arts.com/sotaro-takanami
▫︎ 91 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Sotaro Takanami Thousands of Flowers Oil on canvas 73 x 91 cm
Widmer Tassinari ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 92 ▫︎
La Bellezza Nascosta Mixed media on canvas 130 x 90 cm
“BUT IS THE WHEEL ALWAYS ROUND?”
W I D M E R TA S S I N A R I https://circle-arts.com/widmer-tassinari
▫︎ 93 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Christopher Evan Taylor Wunderkammer Oil 36 x 36 in.
“Originally, I painted landscapes from my travels, focusing on the accidents of nature’s design. Later, I incorporated the figure of a child into my landscapes, adding a new metaphorical dimension to my work with implications of youth, renewal, and blossoming innocence. My more recent paintings have taken on an iconographical aspect, drawing from Medieval Renaissance and Romanticism art themes. The viewer may form their own interpretation of the symbolism the painter’s message may convey.”
C H R I S TO P H E R E VA N TAY LO R www.christopherevantaylor.com
The Angels Factory ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 94 ▫︎
Not A Magritte Pen drawing 60 x 80 cm
“Sharing my quest for a coherent perception of the modern world, with many questions, and very rarely finite answers.”
T H E A N G E L S FA C TO R Y https://linktr.ee/the_angels_factory
▫︎ 95 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ San Heart of the Mother 7,9 kg pure silver 999, 38 x 28 x 18 cm
In 2009, Susanna San embarked on a journey to Jericho. Amidst the serene waters of the Dead Sea, she forged a profound commitment to both herself and the world—an unwavering dedication to peace. Using the clay from the Dead Sea, she skillfully molded a heart-shaped sculpture, placing it with intention beside the tranquil waters. This heartfelt and symbolic act of inner transformation is poignantly captured in her sculpture, aptly named “The Heart of the Mother.”
SAN www.santurnus.com
Ida Tong ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 96 ▫︎
We’re Not Alone Acrylic on canvas 36 x 24 in.
“Ultimately, we are not alone because everything is interconnected. However, in reality, one is attached to one’s past (represented by all the chimpanzees), and one romanticizes about a future savior (represented by the humanoid) while experiencing anxiety and loneliness in the present, hoping for a different outcome.”
I D A TO N G www.idatong.org
▫︎ 97 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Anthony Tremmaglia Me To You Charcoal and acrylic 40 x 40 in.
“I challenge the conventions of art making in two-dimensional works that appear sculptural and with hand-rendered forms that may be initially mistaken for photographs or digital manipulation. However, my intent is not to deceive; rather, I welcome prolonged contemplation in a time marked by superficial analysis. Once engaged, viewers may sense a contradiction between rough stone and smooth flesh, symbolizing relationships (with the self or with others).”
ANTHONY TREMMAGLIA www.anthonytremmaglia.com
Carlos Vega ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 98 ▫︎
Illusion Acrylic on canvas 20 x 16 in.
“My work revolves around visions, ideas, and emotions—memories of the past and the present—finding an abstract figurative form towards freedom and the lightness of intensity.”
C A R LO S V E G A www.saatchiart.com/carlosvega
▫︎ 99 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Raúl Vega Untitled Thought Photograph 30 x 40 in.
“I expect a certain amount of randomness in my process. I never quite know how a picture will turn out because each image has a life of its own. My work combines elements of architecture, cultural iconography, color, textures, and the mundane that I observe, which often goes unnoticed. I am always dealing with randomness and chaos.”
R AÚ L V E G A www.raulvega.com
Marti White ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 100 ▫︎
Abertura I Collage 11 x 11 in.
Marti White, a versatile mixed media artist from Mankato, Minnesota, explores both abstract and representational subjects. She is primarily self-taught with the guidance of various artist mentors and workshops. Marti’s eclectic style spans diverse media and subjects. She begins her creative process by immersing herself in color and medium, embracing the spontaneity of her tools. Proficient in watercolor, acrylic, mixed-media, and collage, she enjoys experimenting with artistic possibilities.
MARTI WHITE www.circle-arts.com/marti-white
▫︎ 101 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Josef Weidner Abstrakt 009 Acrylic on canvas 13 x 18 cm
Josef Weidner’s paintings are inspiring, painterly impressions imbued with a very specific dynamism. Geometric and organic shapes, lines, and colors impart a highly personal style to his artwork. He takes particular pride in the artwork “Cogito ergo sum.” It reflects a portion of his emotions and represents his personal journey. These compelling thoughts flow together on the canvas, forming a harmonious canon of innermost feelings.
JOSEF WEIDNER www.josef-weidner.de
Max Werner ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 102 ▫︎
Yellowstone Lake Acrylic on canvas 56 x 37,5 in.
Born in Ghent, Belgium, Max Werner now resides in the USA. He initially studied Fine Art at the Byam Shaw School of Art and the Slade School of Art, both part of University College London, and later taught Printmaking at these institutions. In 1990, he established his own etching workshop in London. From 1997 to 2003, Max Werner worked with the Art House Gallery in Buenos Aires, Argentina, during which time he extensively traveled throughout the country. His body of work primarily comprises large landscape paintings on canvas, often featuring rural scenes, including cattle auctions and gauchos. Upon relocating to the USA in 2003, Werner returned to his more familiar artistic approach. His work encompasses a wide range of ideas, all of which share a common narrative element. He often draws inspiration from landscapes and unique compositions and plays with light in various locations.
MAX WERNER https://www.maxwernerart.com
▫︎ 103 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Max Werner Late Summer Rain Acrylic and canvas 27,5 x 43,5 in.
Werner’s paintings are typically created in his studio, weeks after capturing sketches and photos during his travels. This approach allows him to convey his emotions and mood rather than aiming for a faithful representation of the places he depicts, inviting viewers to reflect on the art’s essence. Max Werner finds inspiration in surrealism, particularly the works of Magritte, appreciating the subtle disconnections from reality that this art style often presents.
Malina Wieczorek ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 104 ▫︎
ACT-Lips and Other Imponderables, 2008 Mixed media on canvas 120 x 60 cm
Malina Wieczorek pursued her artistic education at the Academy of Fine Arts in Kracow, graduating with honors in 1996. Since 1994, her works have been a prominent presence in the art world. Her creations now grace prestigious corporate and private collections worldwide. Malina reflects on her decades-long exploration of the human nude: “As a painter, I find that women’s bodies offer a profound canvas for contemplating the essence of life. They delve into existential dilemmas that resonate universally. I am captivated by the body, distilled into a symbol, an abstract representation.”
MALINA WIECZOREK www.malinawieczorek.com | IG@malinawieczorekart
▫︎ 105 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Malina Wieczorek ACT- ECCE HOMO, 2023 Acrylic and mixed media on canvas 120 x 120 cm
Kimberly Wurster ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 106 ▫︎
Black Phoebe in Spring Cattails Pastel 22 x 16 in.
“My first love is painting birds. I find total peace in listening to them call and sing, going about the daily business of being a bird. I work from my own reference photos, but there is absolutely no substitute for time spent observing my subjects, absorbing the atmosphere on multiple levels. I welcome you into my world as an artist, to share my appreciation of the amazing and beautiful world in which we live.”
K I M B E R LY W U R S T E R www.kimberlywurster.com
▫︎ 107 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Jeong-Ah Zhang A Quiet Conversation, 2017 Acrylic on canvas 53 x 73 cm
“My life and art are based on my own philosophical thoughts and experiences. I am interested in the philosophy of immanence and transcendence in all beings, and I try to listen to all the conceptions of all things, have an open mind, and remember what resonates. It is a soul resonance beyond the time frame. Basically, this means that I try to focus on the essence of life by establishing core values, and at the same time, I am trying to sublimate it into my works.”
JEONG-AH ZHANG www.jeongahzhang.com
Susan Zatt ▫ Spotlight 35 ▫︎ 108 ▫︎
Orange Road Acrylic on canvas
Susan Zatt has dedicated her entire career to the arts, serving as an educator, writer, editor, and painter. As a valuable member of the School Art League Board of Directors, she passionately advocates for the arts, assisting emerging high school art students in securing scholarships for their artistic education and future careers. With an impressive portfolio boasting over 25 exhibitions, including prestigious events like Art Basel, Hamptons Art Fair, and NYC Art Expo, Susan Zatt stands as a seasoned professional artist based in New York City and Fort Lauderdale, FL.
S U S A N Z AT T www.artavita.com/susan-zatt
▫︎ 109 ▫︎ Spotlight 35 ▫ Michael Xavier HER Duel Digital media 18 x 24 in
Michael Xavier is a digital artist known for his innovative approach, seamlessly fusing 2D and 3D elements to craft distinctive and contemporary visual encounters. Through this harmonious amalgamation, he challenges the confines of conventional digital art, offering a novel outlook on the contemporary art landscape.
M I C H A E L X AV I E R https://mcxddesign.webflow.io
Anthony Tremmaglia Me To You Charcoal and acrylic 40 x 40 cm “I challenge the conventions of art making in two-dimensional works that appear sculptural and with hand-rendered forms that may be initially mistaken for photographs or digital manipulation. However, my intent is not to deceive; rather, I welcome prolonged contemplation in a time marked by superficial analysis. Once engaged, viewers may sense a contradiction between rough stone and smooth flesh, symbolizing relationships (with the self or with others).”
www.anthonytremmaglia.com
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Anthony Tremmaglia Me To You Charcoal and acrylic 40 x 40 cm