The Finest Balance (Self Portrait Vanitas), 2024

David Bongiorno Artist Statement The Finest Balance (Self-Portrait Vanitas) Using Oil on Board, I have carefully composed every element of this visual story, telling the relationship of these objects to each other through layered truths. I rendered this painting meticulously to communicate the preciousness and importance of these carefully selected elements. It is a contemporary reimagining of classical still life and compositional techniques and reflects my personality and philosophies to the degree of self-portraiture. This artwork is from a suite of paintings of food I grow, the insects and environment that impact them, the utensils I use, and the recipes I cook with them. It raises everyday practices to an art form through careful and patient observation. The objects are elevated to talismans of my daily experience and their importance to me. It represents my learned humility from earnest attempts thwarted by external influences beyond my control, forcing me to accept loss and encourage and strive for equilibrium. It reminds me of my role in nature, of being at nature’s mercy and the knife-edged balance of all life.

David Bongiorno
Biography
David Bongiorno is an award-winning artist. He has participated in solo and group exhibitions in venues including Steps Gallery Carlton, The Cooroy Arts Centre, Manning Gallery, Maryborough Gallery, Caloundra Gallery, and Cardinia Cultural Centre. He has undertaken commissions, with works in private and public collections.
David has participated in national art prizes including “Emerging Wearable Artist Winner” at the Australian Wearable Art Festival 2022, “Highly Commended” at the Waterbrook Drawing Prize 2023, “Highly Commended” at the Lethbridge 20,000 Small Scale Art Award 2024, and finalist in the Kennedy Art Prize 2024. He has arts curating, teaching, and mentoring experience.
David teaches life drawing, anatomy, and composition workshops to develop the confidence of contemporary artists.