Paul Fortunato’s artistic journey began in New York, where he honed his craft and developed a unique perspective on art. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the School of Visual Arts (SVA), Fortunato immersed himself in the vibrant art scene of the city. His time at SVA was not just as a student but also as a mentor and educator, where he taught for an impressive 23 years. His deep understanding of art and dedication to teaching shaped many young artists’ careers.
For the past nine years, Fortunato has taken his passion for art and education to Hanbat National University in South Korea. This move marked a significant transition, not just geographically but also culturally. Teaching in Korea has provided him with new insights and inspirations, further enriching his work. His experience in Korea has been transformative, allowing him to merge Eastern and Western artistic philosophies and techniques.
One of the aspects of Fortunato’s work is his approach to creation. He considers everything he creates as a form of drawing, whether using traditional materials like pencils and charcoal or incorporating 3D objects onto a surface. This philosophy reflects his belief that art is a continuous process of exploration and expression, transcending conventional boundaries.
A piece from his recent body of work is “HEART ATTACK,” an acrylic on canvas creation that incorporates parts cabinets and HEPA filters. Measuring 72 by 90 by 7 inches (or 182.5 by 228 by 17 centimeters), this piece is part of his new series titled “CIRCULAR TIME: CHAPTER 1.” “HEART ATTACK” is a visual pun, a characteristic feature of many works in this series. The combination of unexpected materials and traditional painting techniques creates a thought-provoking piece that challenges viewers’ perceptions of art and its mediums.
“HEART ATTACK” was the centerpiece of Fortunato’s sprawling solo exhibition in Daejeon, South Korea. The exhibition was a milestone in his career, showcasing his ability to blend different artistic elements seamlessly. The use of parts cabinets and HEPA filters in “HEART ATTACK” not only adds a unique texture and depth to the piece but also brings a contemporary edge to his work. The filters, typically used for air purification, evoke themes of health and cleanliness, while the parts cabinets suggest organization and compartmentalization. Together, these elements create a complex narrative that invites viewers to contemplate the intersection of art, life, and modernity.
Fortunato’s visual puns, like those seen in “HEART ATTACK,” add a layer of humor and wit to his pieces, encouraging viewers to engage with the artwork on multiple levels. This approach reflects his belief that art should not only be visually appealing but also intellectually stimulating.
The “CIRCULAR TIME: CHAPTER 1” series represents Fortunato’s exploration of time and its cyclical nature. Through this series, he delves into the concept of time as a repeating loop, where past, present, and future are interconnected. His use of circular motifs and recurring themes throughout the series reinforces this idea, creating a cohesive body of work that invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences of time.
Teaching in Korea has undoubtedly influenced Fortunato’s artistic practice. The exposure to different cultural contexts and artistic traditions has enriched his work, allowing him to incorporate new techniques and perspectives. His ability to adapt and evolve as an artist is evident in his recent works, which blend traditional and contemporary elements seamlessly.
Paul Fortunato’s artistic journey is a testament to his dedication to exploration and expression. From New York to Korea, he has challenged conventional notions and created pieces that are both visually captivating and intellectually engaging. His unique approach to art, which considers every creation as a form of drawing, reflects his belief in the limitless possibilities of artistic expression.
