Sergio Robleto

As an artist one of our truest desires is to actually create a work of art that is as unique as we are. Not one person is identical to another whether in action, appearance, or psychology. So it’s only natural to think as artists that our work would be unique from the beginning. However, it’s not that easy as I’m sure most of you understand when you have to create a work of art for yourself. You create something you are so proud of but then realize that 3 other students had the same idea as you and that can be disappointing. So in my career I’ve strived to distinguish myself with unique and original works. But how does one do that? As I began to look at other artists I respect in the world I found that the most successful ones have a higher degree of self awareness and truly listen to who they are. Essentially they are content with being themselves and their creations come out as naturally as their voice does.

In searching for who I am as a person I found that I absolutely love the idea of virtue or moral excellence and it enriching the lives of people. The paintings here at STAY gallery were created to do a good work in other people’s lives even when I’m not around to explain. Each piece within this show is intentionally designed to encourage the viewer and empower them.

In “Unite” we see a male figure standing out as the main focal point with his hands in a meditative or prayer like state, his face composed, and his eyes filled with resolution. Behind him in the bold contrasting yellow background are excerpts of text speaking on the importance of remaining humble yet strong. The material items like his shirt are depicted in a loose and almost abstract manner to emphasize their lack of importance and a return to the emphasis of unity and not on the material things in life. In ‘Stand Firm” we again see a centralized figure with his head up high and confident despite the artistic representation of chaos surrounding him with the aggressive mark making and occasional concealment of a brighter background. Over his heart we see a vivid and intense depiction of a rose representing the beauty in his resilience and courage in the face of adversity. We all face hard times but we should do so with our head high and our minds confident to get through it. As you look now to the other works you should be able to see why the show is titled “For the People.”

However, you might have also noticed the four large paintings with the creepy characters and asked yourself what they have to do with the show. In actuality, it’s still the same heart behind the work as the other pieces. This particular style was only sketched for the past 2 years until now where you see them in painted form. This is a series I call “SUPERUGLI.” In short, Superugli is a secret brotherhood of the most hideous and ugly individuals on earth that are so repulsive that they go unnoticed, overlooked, and shunned by society. But what society doesn’t know is that the Superugli brotherhood is responsible for all the good done in the world. The Superugli is full of symbols and meanings but being that they’re a secretive bunch I don’t plan on revealing what everything means but you can use the titles and visuals to lead you to some answers if you care to look.

Exhibit:
For The People
March 20 - April, 2015