![AL BAIO, Spooky Marshmallows, 2010, 48x48in
“Growing up, I never had many friends. I secretly envied all cliques I didn’t qualify for, no matter where their status fell on the totem pole of pre-school popularity.
To compensate for my lack of camaraderie in the real world, I aim to paint my ideal gaggle of goons. The technicolor toddlers in this body of work are unified by their attire as much as by their exaggerated facial expressions. Their rainbow regalia and their synchronized facial quirks become trademarks of their solidarity. As they peek out of their crayola-colored uniforms, they establish the exclusivity of their gang: not just anybody can be a member of this elite squad.
Each painting becomes a celebration of color as I aim to achieve chromatic harmony with every outfit and every monochrome backdrop (blame it on being a child of the ’80s). I don’t know about you, but I’d roll deep with a crew of painted bug-eyed babies any day. But I guess it's up to them to decide if I meet their standards.”
[from the artist’s statement]
WINTER 2011 EMERGING ARTIST SHOW. THU 03 FEB 11. 6-9p.](http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lg018crT1W1qa8yuwo1_400.jpg)
AL BAIO, Spooky Marshmallows, 2010, 48x48in
“Growing up, I never had many friends. I secretly envied all cliques I didn’t qualify for, no matter where their status fell on the totem pole of pre-school popularity. To compensate for my lack of camaraderie in the real world, I aim to paint my ideal gaggle of goons. The technicolor toddlers in this body of work are unified by their attire as much as by their exaggerated facial expressions. Their rainbow regalia and their synchronized facial quirks become trademarks of their solidarity. As they peek out of their crayola-colored uniforms, they establish the exclusivity of their gang: not just anybody can be a member of this elite squad. Each painting becomes a celebration of color as I aim to achieve chromatic harmony with every outfit and every monochrome backdrop (blame it on being a child of the ’80s). I don’t know about you, but I’d roll deep with a crew of painted bug-eyed babies any day. But I guess it's up to them to decide if I meet their standards.”
[from the artist’s statement]
WINTER 2011 EMERGING ARTIST SHOW. THU 03 FEB 11. 6-9p.
