Another Venus (2023) oil on canvas, 12x16 and 12x9”.
A contemporary reinterpretation of Venus de Milo. Each canvas depicts a different viewpoint of the sculpture, provoking audiences to contemplate further artist, muse, and artwork. Available for sale with Tacit Collective.
Narcissus (2023) oil on canvas, 18x24”.
This series, Narcissus, is a set of 3 canvases, each depicting a different viewpoint of Narciso, an ancient sculpture restored by Valerio Cioli during the Italian Renaissance.
Today, the prevalence of self-curated social media feeds can feel new and unnatural. However, the myth of Narcissus dates back to classical antiquity, revealing connections between our behaviours and ancient ones.
Narcissus is a contemporary reinterpretation of a historical work, inviting viewers to contemplate a timeless theme and find parallels to their own lived experiences.
Colour Studies (2023) oil on wooden panel, 9x12”
In this recent body of work, I strive for a distinct aesthetic departure from the figurative and neutral, ignited by a recent visit to Italy that catapulted me back to the Renaissance.The genesis of this series can be traced back to simple colour studies, drawing inspiration from the vividness of frescoes and the weathered surfaces of ancient sculptures. The essence of the work centres on the deliberate use of colour, texture, and gesture to unearth a deeper connection with my roots and rediscover a revitalized sense of purpose. Through these abstract compositions, I urge viewers to embrace the beauty of Italian culture intricately captured within each hue and stroke.
Patina (2021) oil on canvas, 40x60”
There’s this thing that happens over time (that science can explain better than I) where, instead of rusting, certain metals build up a coating on their surface, and appear turquoise. Patinas actually protect the material, and make the metal stronger against corrosion.
And I’ve been thinking about it a lot lately, because this pandemic is wearing us down. What we once called life was erased overnight, leaving us with disorientation and a beating heart. Collectively, we are being forced to adapt — to endure a painful unknown period of time, and that’s been really tough to accept. But I read in a comic by Harlo Martens, “Beautiful things come about in ugly ways.” And there’s something I find beautiful about the teal colour of time.
Exhibition History
2023 - The Drake Hotel, “Marcia Bianchi: Solo Exhibit”, Toronto, ON, Canada.
2023 - Gallery 1313, “Emotive Distance”, Toronto, ON, Canada.
2021 - Elaine Fleck Gallery, “Fleck Fine Art Exhibition”, Toronto, ON, Canada.
Female Figures
My work explores the space between movement and stillness, often expressed through the lively curves of the female form juxtaposed against a solid ground. Through the use of oil paints and a neutral palette, my paintings are a translated state of mind — I intend to capture the essence of whatever is behind a blank stare and draw attention to it. Motivated by my theory that if we confront the uncomfortable, we will find solace.
Personal Space (2021) oil on canvas, 11x14”
In this sold out series, Personal Space, the ambiguity of the figure and of the background are meant to suggest the experience of getting to know someone. Despite entering another’s personal space, much of what makes up that human will remain unknown.
Apocalypse Nudes
The Apocalypse Nude Series is a sold out collection of 21 pieces created from 2020-2021, inspired by an image of Juliet looking off her balcony, intended to encapsulate the artist’s experience of quarantine.
I lean over the railing with a voyeuristic gaze. The time it’s been since I experienced the feeling of community has long surpassed what I once expected. A new reality I was sure to be temporary has actualized into my life. And I am confronted with a conceptual window between me and the world.
I gaze over the rail with longing for the day where I may depart from isolation and join my solitude with yours.