New York artist, Lisa D’Amico and New Jersey artist, Maria Teresa Ortiz-Naretto have joined forces to challenge the traditional techniques and themes of portrait painting by giving contemporary voices to historical female subjects. Their compositions are influenced by the history of women, reflecting both injustices and triumphs. The result is a hybrid portrait series that captures the viewers’ attention and makes them question who these women are, and what lies beneath.
By creating expressive compositions of the subjects and keeping many of the elements of traditional portrait painting intact, D’Amico and Ortiz-Naretto bring forth the schematic and objectified way in which women have been depicted throughout Western art history. In the words of Lisa D’Amico, “Our paintings are about giving these women a visual voice of courage, strength and determination”.
While both artists use vibrant colors and abstract backgrounds, Lisa D’Amico’s primary painting materials are acrylics and resin while Maria Teresa Ortiz-Naretto explores portraiture through oils and wax. These two artists know they cannot re-write history; however, they are determined to push the boundaries of traditional portrait painting and tell the stories from a female point of view.
Explore more of their artwork, visit www.lisadamico.net and www.mtonpaintings.com.
More info: lisadamico.net
