Von Buren Contemporary is excited to announce the upcoming solo exhibition, Evoke Not Provoke, featuring the remarkable works of Italian artist Agostino Rocco. The vernissage will take place on Saturday, March 22 and Sunday, March 23, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., with the exhibition remaining on view until April 11, 2025. Visitors can immerse themselves in Rocco’s captivating art at Von Buren Contemporary, Via Giulia 13, 00186 Roma.
Agostino Rocco, born in 1971 in Padua, is a self-taught artist who has dedicated his life to exploring art history and drawing inspiration from renowned Old Masters. His latest exhibition showcases a selection of thirteen striking portraits that challenge the notion of provocation in contemporary art. Instead of relying on controversial themes or shocking imagery, Rocco aims to evoke powerful emotions through the sheer virtuosity of his craftsmanship.
The exhibition’s title, Evoke Not Provoke, reflects Rocco’s belief that the evocative power of art far surpasses the temporary impact of provocation. Through his meticulously detailed portraits, Rocco captures the essence of human emotion, creating an astonishing intensity within each image. His mastery of skin tones and textures is particularly notable, achieving an incredible level of realism without descending into hyperrealism. While the faces he paints are rooted in his imagination rather than photographs, the vibrancy of his colors brings forth a dynamic representation of life’s multifaceted beauty.
Rocco’s artistic journey has been significantly influenced by the Tuscan and Flemish painters of the 15th century, as well as the French and Dutch masters of the 17th century. In his current work, he explores the representation of human faces, integrating elements of fashion aesthetics that resonate with contemporary viewers. This blend of historical reference and modern interpretation invites the audience to engage deeply with the emotional narratives expressed through his artistry.
Visitors to Evoke Not Provoke can expect an immersive experience that not only showcases the technical brilliance of Agostino Rocco but also invites them to reflect on the deeper meanings of art in today’s world. With each portrait, Rocco demonstrates that art can be a powerful tool for connection, resonating with viewers on both a personal and universal level.
Join us for the opening weekend and explore the compelling works of Agostino Rocco, recognizing that in the realm of art, to evoke is a far more enriching endeavor than to provoke.