Sharks Eat Meat: CRISTIAN ELIZALDE

Saturday, December 12, 2015

DAY 1876 - El Cuidador

Cristian Elizalde is an artist from Santiago, Chile. His paintings parade the charm of everyday life. Often simply explaining important moments. He has a talent for breathing life into characters with very few strokes. Cristian’s worlds are complexly psychological. Think of his work like Howard Finster meets Cézanne.

In “El Peral” space unfolds in an abstract way, creating a Matisse like camouflage pattern. The various species of trees and playing animals are nice details. Not only does Cristian give critters and animals earnest personalities, but paranormal creatures also. Cristian has a knack for crafting oddballs and runaways. Those who belong in a misfit club of alternative painters.

In “La Familia Charlizon” a gang is gathered in the woods for a what seems to be a group portrait. Elusive types who gather when no one else is around. A peculiar light, (possibly a car’s headlights) is projected onto them. Part of the mystery in Cristian’s worlds are what make them alluring. All of his landscapes command a strong understanding of atmospheric light. A type of haunting Goya-esque light grounds the narratives.

Support Cristian’s work and visit his website here. Look for more of his work on Sharks Eat Meat soon.

Review by John Aaron Coulter