Antonino La Vela

Antonino La vela

Location:

Since embarking on my artistic journey in the early 1990s, my creative pursuits have been deeply rooted in the exploration of sociopolitical themes through conceptually driven painting. My artistry is an ongoing dialogue with societal and political discourses, where I aim to highlight and question the complexities of social issues and the constructs of gender roles and identities. 

My work delves into the human condition, juxtaposing the fragility of our existence with visions of realism and speculative futures. This exploration is not only a reflection of the present but also a contemplation of the potential that lies ahead. The nuances of human vulnerability are captured through my artistic lens, inviting viewers to engage in a profound introspection and a reconsideration of the world around them.

After a significant hiatus that began in 2001, I found myself at a crossroads in 2010. It was then that I made the decisive choice to reignite my passion for painting and reintroduce my work to the world. This period of reflection and growth culminated in my alignment with the Art Movement Thinkism. This affiliation marks a new chapter in my career, characterized by a renewed commitment to using art as a vehicle for thought and change. Through my participation in various international competitions and artistic performances since 2010, I have sought not only to showcase my work but also to immerse myself in a global conversation about the transformative power of art. 

My journey is one of continuous evolution, as I strive to create art that not only questions and critiques but also inspires and transcends, urging us to envision a world where creativity and conscience coalesce.

www.antoninolavela.com

www.antoninolavela.it


Portfolio:

The Chinese Dog - Yulin Dog Meat Festival Celebration

My painting "The Chinese Dog," a vivid 50 x 70 cm canvas rendered in acrylic colors, is a deliberate, provocative statement against the harsh treatment of dogs, particularly focusing on their mistreatment in parts of China, including during events like Yulin Dog Meat Festival. The festival, which many of us view with grave concern, involves practices that starkly contrast with the festive connotation its name might imply, especially from the standpoint of the dogs. My artwork seeks to challenge and criticize the dissonance between the supposed celebration and the blatant cruelty involved.
The piece itself employs a palette of bright, almost violent colors arranged into chaotic, abstract forms that suggest turmoil and distress—symbols of the turmoil endured by the animals. This choice of style and composition aims to mirror the chaotic and often unseen suffering these animals endure, pulling the viewer into a narrative that is both uncomfortable and compelling. The sharp contrasts and intense hues reflect the stark reality of the situation, emphasizing the urgent need for change in these cultural practices.
In using acrylics, I chose a medium that allows for bold, unapologetic expressions of color and texture, underscoring the immediacy and importance of the issue. Acrylic paint, known for its versatility and vibrant color retention, helps convey the emotional intensity needed to make a strong statement against such deep-rooted cultural practices. The size of the canvas also plays a critical role, as its large dimensions command attention, making it an imposing force that confronts the viewer head-on with its message.
This artwork is not just a visual endeavor; it's a socio-political statement, a piece of advocacy aiming to draw international attention to the plight of these animals. Through "The Chinese Dog," I aim to provoke thought, evoke empathy, and encourage a dialogue about the ethical treatment of animals across cultural boundaries. The painting challenges viewers to reconsider the morality of longstanding traditions, questioning whether cultural heritage can or should be preserved at the expense of animal welfare.
Moreover, by incorporating elements that might be seen in traditional Chinese art, such as the use of bold lines and symbolic color choices, I bridge the gap between critique and respect for cultural elements, all the while firmly advocating for a reconsideration of practices that harm living beings. It's an invitation to viewers, particularly those who participate in or are familiar with such cultural practices, to reflect on the possibility of cultural evolution that respects both heritage and animal rights.
"The Chinese Dog" is a call to action, crafted to stir the consciences of its audience, urging them to look beyond the surface of cultural festivities and see the underlying issues that need addressing. In presenting this piece, I hope not only to highlight the suffering that often goes unnoticed but also to inspire a movement towards more humane practices that honor the dignity of all living creatures.

The Chinese Dog - Yulin Dog Meat Festival Celebration “The Chinese Dog - Yulin Dog Meat Festival Celebration”

My painting "The Chinese Dog," a vivid 50 x 70 cm canvas rendered in acrylic colors, is a deliberate, provocative statement against the harsh treatment of dogs, particularly focusing on their mistreatment in parts of China, including during events like Yulin Dog Meat Festival. The festival, which many of us view with grave concern, involves practices that starkly contrast with the festive connotation its name might imply, especially from the standpoint of the dogs. My artwork seeks to challenge and criticize the dissonance between the supposed celebration and the blatant cruelty involved.
The piece itself employs a palette of bright, almost violent colors arranged into chaotic, abstract forms that suggest turmoil and distress—symbols of the turmoil endured by the animals. This choice of style and composition aims to mirror the chaotic and often unseen suffering these animals endure, pulling the viewer into a narrative that is both uncomfortable and compelling. The sharp contrasts and intense hues reflect the stark reality of the situation, emphasizing the urgent need for change in these cultural practices.
In using acrylics, I chose a medium that allows for bold, unapologetic expressions of color and texture, underscoring the immediacy and importance of the issue. Acrylic paint, known for its versatility and vibrant color retention, helps convey the emotional intensity needed to make a strong statement against such deep-rooted cultural practices. The size of the canvas also plays a critical role, as its large dimensions command attention, making it an imposing force that confronts the viewer head-on with its message.
This artwork is not just a visual endeavor; it's a socio-political statement, a piece of advocacy aiming to draw international attention to the plight of these animals. Through "The Chinese Dog," I aim to provoke thought, evoke empathy, and encourage a dialogue about the ethical treatment of animals across cultural boundaries. The painting challenges viewers to reconsider the morality of longstanding traditions, questioning whether cultural heritage can or should be preserved at the expense of animal welfare.
Moreover, by incorporating elements that might be seen in traditional Chinese art, such as the use of bold lines and symbolic color choices, I bridge the gap between critique and respect for cultural elements, all the while firmly advocating for a reconsideration of practices that harm living beings. It's an invitation to viewers, particularly those who participate in or are familiar with such cultural practices, to reflect on the possibility of cultural evolution that respects both heritage and animal rights.
"The Chinese Dog" is a call to action, crafted to stir the consciences of its audience, urging them to look beyond the surface of cultural festivities and see the underlying issues that need addressing. In presenting this piece, I hope not only to highlight the suffering that often goes unnoticed but also to inspire a movement towards more humane practices that honor the dignity of all living creatures.

DISCOVERING WAR

These paintings present a vivid exploration of the complex narrative of war. Through the use of silhouetted figures and a kaleidoscopic array of colors and shapes, the artist conveys the duality of war's nature—the somber shadows of conflict juxtaposed with the vibrant celebration of peace. The abstract designs infuse the canvases with movement, suggesting the turmoil and subsequent relief that follows. Silhouettes in various stances, from contemplative to jubilant, evoke the universal emotional journey from the depths of war to the heights of human resilience and joy.
The artworks together form a thought-provoking dialogue on the human condition in the face of adversity, capturing both the gravity and the hope that emerge from the cessation of conflict.

War Party “War Party”

"War Party" is a dynamic and colorful painting that contrasts a silhouetted group of figures with a vividly patterned background. The title suggests a celebratory yet potentially ironic theme, possibly touching on the duality of triumph and conflict. The artwork's use of stark silhouettes against a busy tapestry of shapes and designs lends it an energetic and abstract quality, hinting at deeper narratives beneath its playful surface.

Epilogue of War “Epilogue of War”

"Epilogue of War" is a compelling piece that uses vibrant patterns and silhouetted figures to reflect on the aftermath of conflict. The figures, isolated on distinct, colorful platforms, may symbolize the diverse, enduring impacts of war. The abstract, chaotic background hints at the disruption and fragmentation war leaves behind. With its bold colors and dynamic composition, the painting invites viewers to contemplate the universal and impersonal nature of war's consequences.

Discovering Future

The "Future" series captivates with its vibrant exploration of themes tied to the anticipation of what's to come. Through a visual language rich in symbols and abstract imagery, each painting delves into a different facet of the future, from the skies to societal undercurrents.
The pieces are united by a dynamic use of color and form, creating a tapestry of predictions that are as much a reflection of contemporary concerns as they are a prophecy. The artist's brush dances between hope and caution, painting potential realities with a boldness that challenges the viewer to confront the comfort of the present.
Central to the series is a dialogue on transformation—be it in how we communicate, our environmental trajectory, or the very fabric of societal structure. The use of abstract forms allows for an interpretation that is deeply personal yet universally relevant, as each viewer may find their own hopes and fears mirrored within the swirling patterns and fragmented shapes.
In this way, the "Future" series transcends mere artistic expression, becoming a visual forum for pondering the paths that lie ahead. The artist skillfully balances on the edge of prediction and imagination, leaving us to question not only what the future holds but also our role in shaping it.

Discovering War

These paintings present a vivid exploration of the complex narrative of war. Through the use of silhouetted figures and a kaleidoscopic array of colors and shapes, the artist conveys the duality of war's nature—the somber shadows of conflict juxtaposed with the vibrant celebration of peace. The abstract designs infuse the canvases with movement, suggesting the turmoil and subsequent relief that follows. Silhouettes in various stances, from contemplative to jubilant, evoke the universal emotional journey from the depths of war to the heights of human resilience and joy.
The artworks together form a thought-provoking dialogue on the human condition in the face of adversity, capturing both the gravity and the hope that emerge from the cessation of conflict.

WWW.ANTONINOLAVELA.COM
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