MICHAEL SACRAMENTO

Toys

My paintings of toys are both an investigation of the intersection of formalism, Pop and realism as well as an amusing way for me to remember my childhood. My work is heavily informed by Wayne Theibaud, Edward Hopper, Raimonds Staprans and Mel Ramos. However, I also incorporate influences from formalist and urban art, cartoons and comic books. I aim to enhance the mood of my paintings and create a deeper relationship with my audience using these various interests.

Like most children, I often enjoyed playing with toys. They were my catalysts for friendship, imagination and ambition - Toy robots were shared between cousins, classmates and me; Lego building blocks helped me visualize worlds beyond my own; I used crayons to realize my passion for art. There was nothing I enjoyed more.

Currently, my art reflects on that joy. I use it as subject while I explore the qualities of paint, composition and how they may enhance the feeling of nostalgia and lost innocence. The paintings are created as colorful but slightly aged artifacts that seem like they have been cut from walls and retained for posterity. This is achieved by layering different colors mixed with a concrete like medium on a surface then incorporating an image on top, ala graffiti.

Consequently, my work aims to find connections and transcend boundaries with others who share the same fond memories of childhood. It is this connection that makes my vision complete.