Creatura Antica 2015

Roberto Ferri painted Creatura Antica with oils, and the result is this figure, emerging as if from ancient times. The warm tones of the figure contrast against the dark background, which must have taken many layers of glazing to create such a depth. You can imagine him building up the form, stroke by stroke, guided by intuition, and creating a compelling composition. The result is both sensual and unsettling. I wonder what Ferri was thinking when he painted it? The figure looks weary and melancholic, as if he is burdened by some ancient knowledge or sorrow, and perhaps, by echoing the old masters of painting, Ferri is exploring the weight of art history. It is clear he is highly skilled in this particular language, so how does he make it his own? Like all artists, Ferri is in conversation with the past, and by referencing the old masters, he connects to a tradition while bringing his own unique vision. That’s what’s exciting: it's about the exchange of ideas, inspiring and challenging each other across time.