I don’t think there’s a single piece of art left in Carlito Dalceggio‘s studio. It appears as though the artist has completely emptied himself into Galerie [sas], cramming the walls, the floors, and every nook and cranny with his work. There are paintings, works on paper, prints, sculptures, a painted coffin, decorated skulls, video, embellished furniture, even a pair of printed underpants. Palm fronds and dried petals grace the floor, slogans and quotes are written straight onto the walls with black ink, poems are stapled next to the paintings. You feel as though you are entering Dalceggio’s home, not a gallery space.

His work melds the symbols and styles of Mexico, Thailand and India – rhythmic, fluid lines intertwine, growing leaves, petals, eyes, and limbs. They have no beginning and no end. Like a mandala, his artworks pulls you in, trapping you with their vivid colours and hypnotic lines.

Here’s a short clip of his video shrine:

My particular favourite is his latest icon, a Pinocchio figure with a leafy branch growing out of his face in place of a nose. “It means that truth is overcoming lies”, explains Dalceggio. I think it’s going to catch on. Come and join the fiesta.

Galerie [sas]
space 416
Carlito Dalceggio
Fear of Death – Death of Fear
April 29 – May 29, 2010
www.galeriesas.com