There is an aspect of mystery, rhythm and enigma about his perfectly choreographed oeuvre. Overstepping the mundane and the predictable, the beauty of oil colors on aluminium adds a tactile sensuousness to his hypnotic vignettes, so typical of Karim Ghidinelli. With a one-of-a-kind style abstract- expressionist, Italian artist, Ghidinelli is well known for his central iconic image of a fingerprint, a theme that has been central to his work since he started working.

Dar Al Funoon art gallery featured a selection of Ghidinelli’s twenty-one large format works in an exhibition that ran from April 2 to April 23. He laces his work with vibrant energy, gripping charm and numerous storylines. His enchanting perspective is as unique as it is refreshing, yet, it is not so easy to decipher the mesmerizing mystery of his art.

The originality of Karim Ghidinelli’s eye-catching paintings is inspired by a powerful inner tension and his constant travel experiences. Over the years, he has developed a richly appealing body of work dedicated to fluidity and spontaneity as textures and heady colors coalesce in an immersive visual.

Ghidinelli and his vibrant enamel colors on carved aluminium offer a confluence of engaging narratives, questions and nuanced splendor. He makes reference to various personal narratives, which are humorous at times, and at times rather complex.

In his art, this acclaimed artist celebrates the differences that make each of us unique. “The hand carved fingerprint is enlarged and delineated with the twists and turns that are unique to each individual,” notes the artist. Throughout, there are umpteen narratives that integrate well with his compositions and add more depth and provocation to his works.

Ghidinelli carries forward his signature in his paintings such as ‘Phenomenal Division’, ‘Confessing’ and ‘What do you see?’ all of which are equally evocative and engaging. According to the artist, his work is based upon passage, mark, and assurance. “Identity is naturally a part of the evolutionary process of the passage; the mark is embodied by my distinctive trace on the page. As my work documents the passage of others, it simultaneously assures me of my own journey,” he further explains.

Commenting on his artistic journey, he says, “The mutation from print, to portrait, to metal, oil or collage represents the myriad of influences I draw upon when composing my thought. Being the living testament of an eclectic path, it is impossible for me to ignore the possibilities that surround me. My eye reads them all as one.”

Meanwhile, speaking of his art work, Ghidinelli states, “The piece is never concluded; rather it symbolizes the continuation of a phase, from himself to the public, from his interpretation to ours.”

Karim Ghidinelli was born in Brescia, a city in the north of Italy. After having travelled extensively, he now lives and works in Miami, USA. He holds an MFA (Master of Fine Arts) degree in Painting in 2002 from Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah, GA.

Ghidinelli’s works are widely collected throughout the world by some of the most discriminating private collectors including many celebrities and institutions. He has exhibited widely in the US, UK, Canada, Italy, Ireland, and Kuwait.

Dar Al Funoon Gallery is located in Behbehani Compound, House No: 28, Al Watiah. For more information, please contact telephone no: 2243 3138.