Carlos Fentanes

Crafting a statement for a painting can be a daunting task. What do I wish to convey? How best to articulate it? Will it resonate with viewers? These questions swirled in my mind as I embarked on this artistic endeavor.

Recently, I had the privilege of showcasing my work at an Art Show of Miniatures in the Netherlands. It marked my third foray into exhibiting in Europe, following exhibitions in Spain and Ireland. With each opportunity, I sense a deeper connection with audiences who truly appreciate my artistry.

Commencing a new painting, I remain receptive to the evolution it may undergo. Often, the final piece diverges significantly from its initial conception. Such was the case with this miniature nude, initially conceived against a black background reminiscent of Lucas Cranach’s detailed figures.

However, during the creative process, I found myself drawn to the work of Francis Bacon. His minimalist yet evocative use of lines to delineate space intrigued me profoundly. It prompted a shift in my composition, transforming the painting’s trajectory.

Thus, I opted to incorporate spatial elements, inspired by Bacon’s technique. With just a few strokes, I sought to imbue the scene with a sense of place—a corner of a room, suggested by subtle lines.

In essence, this painting became an exercise in composition, a continual exploration of form, color, light, and shadow. The subject? My wife, a recurrent presence in my oeuvre. Beyond the practicality of avoiding model fees, her inclusion holds personal significance. My paintings serve as a visual diary, capturing the nuances of my daily life. Painting her is an intimate reflection of our shared experiences.

Admittedly, the prospect of depicting my wife in the nude initially daunted me. The imagined judgments of family and acquaintances weighed heavily. Yet, I found solace in the lineage of great artists who had traversed similar territory—Raphael, Rembrandt, Schiele, Picasso, Dalí. In their esteemed company, I embraced the portrayal as an homage to the human form, transcending societal taboos.

Despite occasional criticism from those outside the art world, I remain steadfast in my choice of subject matter. Through years of artistic exploration, I have found profound comfort and familiarity in painting my wife.

With that, I invite you to immerse yourselves in the visual narrative of this exhibition. Let the paintings speak for themselves.