Rocco Pisto Paintings

Check the review of my latest solo exhibition at the Strand Gallery in Pontiac. Exhibition runs until March 31st.

https://detroitartreview.com/2023/01/rocco-pisto-strand-gallery-in-pontiac/ere to edit title.

Artist Statement

Since the 1970's, my love for the abstract elements of nature has found expression in water-based media. Working with watercolor's unexpected results allows me to produce unique, spontaneous works. Building layer upon layer, balancing color, tone, depth, and motion is similar to creating a symphony. My paintbrush becomes a performer, dancing across the paper, juicy and full of life. Though I work quite deliberately, using both traditional and non-traditional techniques, my unconscious is the undisputed project manager. My work frees my imagination and provides many opportunities for magical accidents. Each piece evolves slowly, sometimes taking months, as thin films of watercolor build intensity and warmth. I love to work with all water media, and will often combine crayon, watercolor, ink and gesso, watching to see what is revealed on the surface.

I approach my work intuitively and utilize contours that are fluid and loose. My work emphasizes movement, texture, force, energy, dynamic shapes, and forms. My goal is to transmit an essence or mood that is subconsciously recognizable.

I began developing my artistic side a s a young teen, and continued while studying under my long-time mentor and confidante, Kingsley Calkins. King's lyrical, whimsical work has had a strong influence on my art, both during my college years at Eastern Michigan University earning a Bachelor in Fine Arts, and now, over 40 years later. My passion for the painting process was influenced by such abstract expressionist icons as Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning. As Jackson Pollock said, It doesn't matter how the paint is put on, as long as something is said. I strive to have each painting speak to the viewer in a unique, surprising way.

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