When I was a little boy I put my hand in a meat grinder and lost most of my left arm. That was the beginning of my life as an artist. From that moment on, my life as a child was filled with so many moments of suffering and isolation. I believe that is why you see the paintings that I have created filled with so much solitude and emotion.

My paintings are influenced by my love of architecture, graphic novels and the great masters. My favorite artists are Rene Magritte, Giorgio de Chirico and Rafal Olbinski. I started working in oils back in the nineties but since 2005 I have been working strictly on the computer. I find that the computer gives me a freedom that I did not experience with regular paint and I am free to create whatever I want.

Painting gives me the freedom to delve deep within myself and connect with that side that most people try to keep repressed. I love to create images that move people emotionally and forces them to see that which does not exist, yet at the same time seems familiar. When a person sees one of my paintings I want them to feel the pain or happiness that I transferred to the canvas. I want them to say, "I've been in that same emotional place." I want people to really feel the painting.

The act of painting is a collection of my thoughts, energy and experiences.

Painting allows me to focus on myself, listen to my inner voice and sort my feelings out. You can love my paintings or hate them, but if they move you then I have done that which I set out to do as an artist, I have touched you deep within your soul, and in the end, that is all that really matters. 
www.joseroberto.com

To learn more about this artist or to purchase a piece of their work, contact the Arts & Culture Alliance of Greater Knoxville at (865) 523-7543 or www.knoxalliance.com.