Randi Russo, besides being my seriously talented sister, is a rising contemporary artist whose first solo exhibition is currently being held at the Thomas Masters Gallery in Chicago. The show is called LIFE LINES and will be up until January 31st. Her abstract paintings are inspired by the post-World War II era (think Willem de Kooning, Jackson Pollock, Arshile Gorky). I have seen Randi evolve over the years and this recent body of work is stellar. If you are interested in collecting contemporary emerging art, Randi Russo is one to watch! Below are some of my favorite paintings.
It is the organic gestural line work that distinguishes Randi Russo's paintings. These lyrical lines define her style. Biological themes are subtly represented through magnification and abstraction. As Randi put it, "[It's] as if I cannot pull myself away from what we're made of."
Large painting hanging at the Thomas Masters Gallery (sold). Invasion from the Inside Out, 65x65
In her artist statement, she goes on further to say: "It's now a time for me to reaffirm LIFE, to consider what life means in the face of adversity; how it travels from innocence to experience, from joy to despair and back to joy again, from tragedy to defiance to victory."
Pinnacle, acrylic, watercolor pencil, chalk on linen, 42" x 50"
The Militant March of the Heart, acrylic, watercolor pencil, color sticks on canvas, 58" x 78"
What makes Randi Russo's work so special is the texture of each painting and use of different materials.
Topography Falling, acrylic paint and pencil on panel, 18" x 24"
Cells in Motion, acrylic, pencil and chalk on panel, 24"x 30"
Wisdom and Angst (What it is to be a Woman), acrylic paint, glass beads and pencil on panel, 18" x 24"
About the Artist
Randi Russo was born and raised in New York, where she created a life and career through her songwriting and performing. The Village Voice has called her a “guitar goddess,” and that she’s “someone to keep your eye on… [and] her fame is pretty much guaranteed.” She has toured the U.S. and Europe, recorded three albums and two EPs, and has opened for well-known acts. In 2012, Randi moved to Chicago to pursue her painting while she continues to create music in two new projects. She has painted since she was a child and studied painting at Washington University in St. Louis. Her works have been featured in several group shows, including one at the Chicago Cultural Center. She is represented by Thomas Masters Gallery.
For any inquiries, contact:
THOMAS MASTERS GALLERY
245 W. North Avenue
Chicago, IL
312-440-2322
thomas@thomasmastersgallery.com
www.thomasmastersgallery.com
Randi Russo: rr@randirusso.com www.randirusso.com
Paintings priced between $3000-$5500.