San Cataldo, 1987

Paolo Amico’s work is a balanced synthesis that encapsulates the diverse stimuli from various phases of his life. It started with his early drawings replicating Disney characters, followed by the refined aesthetics of Japanese anime he used to watch. He shared graphics for open-source gaming virtual realities on early platforms, often drawing aliens. His artistry involved the use of various software – all elements of unconscious fascination for the so-called “native digital” generations. All of this was complemented by his love for and studies in conventional art, with its rules, discipline, symbolism, and a typically “analog” approach.

The medium – just an ordinary Bic pen – and the technique – countless meticulously drawn strokes and dots – transform all these elements into hyper-realistic, surreal, ironic representations with a subtle pop touch. They are created by an artist whose vision could be described as “digital in analog.” Thanks to innovative NFT technology, this definition allows for a further transition into the digital realm.