santella.org

I have a broad background in the arts that spans traditional media as well as research and development in digital imagery. I have painted and sculpted instinctively from an early age and am primarily self-taught. In contrast, I have an extensive academic background in digital imagery. In 2005 I completed a PhD at Rutgers University in computer science. My thesis work applied cognitive principles and artistic practice to imbue computer generated imagery with some of the carefully controlled abstraction of fine art.

My research and fine art work is spanned by a concern for visual clarity in pursuit of meaning. It is important to me that every work suggests an ongoing narrative, a story carefully crafted, but only half told, that the viewer must complete. These stories speak of the spiritual in a modern context and explore the central question of how to find meaning in dreams and visions while staying involved and in love with the people and reality that so often seem to betray those dreams.

My work draws on many recognizable traditions, Medieval religious art, 19th century British art: Pre-Raphaelitism, Symbolism, Fairy painting, as well as contemporary fantasy and comic book art. However, I do not identify myself primarily as a practitioner of any of these styles. Above all, I care about a unifying element of the best of all this work, a sense of wonder, a suggestion of the beauty and mystery of life, illuminating the mortal world from inside. For better or worse, I don’t think visual art can teach, but it can tell stories that remind people of the important things in life: hope, wonder, love. I cannot make a viewer share my worldview, but I can suggest a theme, a story. I try to pass along the spark of wonder that inspired me and allow the viewers to complete the story and take their own lesson.