American Dream - The return of the buffalo

And the winner is Stefano Zagaglia! with 'Revenge' -- oil on canvas 40 x 80 cms (15 x 30 inc).
Visitors of the show American Dream scored this painting as best of the group exhibit that closed yesterday at Spazio Fare Pittura, Milan, Italy.

I believe Stefano combined a strong concept with a technical execution of a professional level, perfectly functional to the meaning behind the idea. Stefano's approach to the subject, takes life from his love for the wild animal world -- proven by his frequent travels to Africa (where I suspect he's at this very moment) and the larger series in progress I had the chance to preview. The result of this 'wild life' viewpoint is an original way to question America's history.

Bravo! Stefano is rewarded with a plein air alumimium easel and is offered a solo show in 2013.

PS. What a better soundtrack than this wonderful tune

Crow has brought the message
to the children of the sun
for the return of the buffalo
and for a better day to come
[...]

Ghost Dance by Robbie Robertson -- Music for the Native Americans © 1994

[www.francescofontana.com]

The American Dream from an European viewpoint

The show just closed with a best of show prize

(C) Francesco Fontana 'Flags' -- Oil on Linen The painting shown here is the icon of the group show American Dream that is closing today here in Milan, Italy.  The theme was given to the students of my school of painting alla prima FarePittura as an essay of the prep of a professional show. It was also an assignment to question themselves about developing their own message and vision, as artists to be. They engaged with the history and influence of American culture, from an European point of view, and offered a variety of interesting solutions. While you're reading this, we are appointing the visitors best of show (called Premio Mano d'Opera) rewarded with the prize of a plein air aluminium easel. The show opened last Sept 13. My article as a curator can be translated here from Italian. Stay tuned and talk to me! Live in Painting : ) Francesco Fontana www.francesocfontana.com PS. The painting above is 'Flags' (details) a work of mine that happily sold during the show. I know that business kept me away from you for a while, so next week I'll start a daily newsletter. A painting a day from my recent plein air and studio work, will be featured for you to enjoy, share, comment and purchase if available. Often but less frequently you'll receive updates about my upcoming workshops in Italy, France and beyond.  If you think that will be too much information in your mailbox, please let me know your preferences. If you feel like Basta!feel free to cancel here.