Pencils Exp14 2018

Alfio Giuffrida made “Pencils Exp14” by using flat, graphic shapes and lines, constructing a playful, almost cartoon-like composition. It’s like he’s saying, “Here’s a world, built not from realism, but from bold choices.” The pencils themselves are these bright green and pink structures, each one acting like a stage for a series of objects. Look at the textures and colours. Everything is laid bare, and there's a clear delight in the physicality of the paint. It’s neither trying to hide nor impress, just existing in its purest form. Take that squiggly orange shape, what's that about? Its boldness is so confidently awkward, it's wonderful. Giuffrida reminds me a little of David Hockney in the way he uses flat space and bright colours to create a sense of depth. Like Hockney, he's not afraid to embrace simplicity and directness, making you wonder why more art doesn't feel this brave. The ambiguity invites us into a conversation that’s far more interesting than any single, neat interpretation.