Meet expressionist sensation Gena Milanesi. She creates dynamic jazzy paintings in energetic black pigment celebrating music, sports and art.
Daedalus: What artistic movement do you identify yourself with?
Gena Milanesi: A blend of Abstract Expressionism, Dada/Surrealism and a dash of Realism.
D: What do you feel you need to show your viewers with your painting?
GM: Always keep an open mind. Deep down everyone has a rudimentary appreciation for the arts. I’ve found that quite a number of people feel hesitancy or intimidation even when there is a meaningful attachment involved with a piece. With the sports integration in some of my work, my aim is to show viewers that an unusual context doesn’t need to disenfranchise from the fine art realm, especially if it’s executed in a thought-provoking manner.
D: What is the greatest challenge of being a young creative today?
GM: Apprehension stems from this emphasis on image and social media today. Young creatives must confront the notion of constantly being tied to our work and whether or not the work can stand on its own. In the art world, people intentionally explore facets of the artist in the work so whether you choose to be attached or dissociated, you must remain honest & transparent.
D: What kind of tunes stimulate you when in the studio?
GM: The most classic of rock and hardest of rap – depends on the intensity needed.
D: How do you challenge yourself to evolve artistically?
GM: I’m self-taught so I naturally seek out unconventional techniques while having old methods in mind. A great deal of painting is the balance of regarding your instincts and taking risks. Every application must be deliberate & essential.
D: What do you want to say with your art?
GM: One of my most genuine forms of happiness is the immediate reaction from my work – good or bad. I want you to feel something. Perhaps, even be a reminder that life is full of surprises.
D: Is there a particular motif that drives your aesthetics?
GM: A controlled and fixed expression of motion and movement.
D: What are your thoughts about the art scene in LA?
GM: Born and raised in LA, it’s been very exciting to witness this resurgence. LA has the potential to become a viable art world destination and bring something new to the table on a cultural scale. Numerous things can happen when you create opportunities for artists in terms of affordability and just a general sense of encouragement with collaborative efforts. It’s heating up, to say the least.
D: What are you working on right now?
GM: I’m in a monochrome phase so it’s training my eye to work with less without compromising texture or the illusion of movement. I’m enjoying the challenge.
D: What is your greatest ambition?
GM: In a conceptual sense, to evoke interest from people that wouldn’t necessarily have any awareness of fine art. On a more tangible level, create a series of art installations and experiences for the 2024 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Guitar commissioned for the @gibsonguitar headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee.
