ATIM SUMMER 2017

Museum of Arts and Design New York April 27th 2018

A multicultural celebration of peace! ÂŽ

ArtTour International is pleased to announce that the 6th annual ATIM Masters Awards on April 27th, 2018 at the New York Museum Of Arts and Design.

This highly anticipated annual awards ceremony is the flagship event of ArtTour International Magazine and draws artists and art aficionados from all around the world.

A Multi-Cultural event dedicated to raising social awareness "We continue our efforts to promote peace through the arts, and we are dedicating our upcoming event to promote social awareness. "Create 4 Peace" is a program founded by ArtTour International Magazine to reduce the transgenerational transmission of pain and suffering, utilizing art to impact the imagination and creativity of people to transmit love, peace, and personal responsibility."

Viviana Puello

Editor-in-Chief ArtTour International Magazine

®

www.atimtop60masters.com Tel 1 800 807-1167 Ext 707 For information and artist submissions for participation in the 2018 issue of the ATIM’s Masters Of Contemporary Art visit www.atimtop60masters.com

Artist Submissions If you would like to publish your works at ArtTour International Magazine send us your submissions to info@arttourinternational.com or call 1 (800) 807-1167

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A BRIDGE BETWEEN CONTINENTS At the core of ArtTour International is the ability and the promise to inspire our global audience to interact with the wonderful world of art. Our mission is to connect artists with art lovers, collectors, and galleries worldwide, promoting the arts as a vehicle to inspire a renewed collective consciousness.

GLOBAL POWER BRAND HAS REDEFINED THE WAY TO PROMOTE THE ARTS The foundation of ArtTour International’s leadership and authority is the brand’s unique role as an arts and culture barometer for a global audience. ArtTour International presents art news in a humaninterest-story format. The magazine covers, analyzes, comments on, and defines art news, culture, and influential personalities in the art industry.

Beautiful and sophisticated, ArtTour International distinguishes itself through its bold coverage in a socially conscious design.

Thought-provoking, relevant and always influential, ArtTour International has re-defined the way to promote the arts. ®

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ArtTour International Publications presents

A book by artist, writer, curator, journalist and activist, Viviana Puello, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of ArtTour International Magazine

This written gift, tells the success story of artist, writer, journalist and activist, Viviana Puello, Editor-in-Chief and founder of ArtTour International Magazine, one of the most influential art magazines in the international market in present times.

In these pages, Puello recounts her personal experiences, revealing secrets from her journey; sacred moments of pain, failure and the wisdom gained; lessons learned and the self-awareness that has welcomed her to shift life’s obstacles dramatically into life-changing success.

www.arttourinternational.com/inspiration Published by ArtTour International, Inc. 45 Rockefeller Plaza Suite 2000, New York, NY 10111 © Copyright 2015 ArtTour International Magazine.All copyrights are reserved by the author. Reproduction of any published material without the written permission of the magazine’s publisher is prohibited by law.

A Letter From The Editor We at ArtTour International Magazine want to thank all our readers for their support. Once again, we're here to share the great news with you!

Breaking news!!! The ArtTour International TV Show has launched its first season, tune in every Thursday at 5:30 pm to MNNHD -Channel 5 Spectrum 1993 and enjoy a great programming. The weekly halfhour series engages the audience about events, headlines and inspiring stories of artists making an impact on the international art scene. Show segments include guest interviews with visual and performing artists, travel destinations around the globe and real-world advice and tips from leading experts in the art industry. The show, developed by Alan Grimandi, Co-founder of ArtTour International Magazine, who also serves as executive producer, aims to act as a social platform to inspire acceptance and tolerance by exposing the beauty of diversity and the value of cultural exchange.

In New York, Tune into MNNHD Ch. 1993 in Manhattan (TWC/SPECTRUM). Outside of New York watch the live streaming of our show at mmn.org This issue of ATIM is full of articles that focus on celebrities who bring us their art and their stories of success. We feature exclusive articles and interviews with experts in their field. You will enjoy the state-of-the-art design with exciting content including art news, featured artists, fantastic images of artworks and updates about the latest events.

Our next stop? Miami! We're proud to announce our participation at Spectrum Miami. We’re very excited about this adventure and the opportunity of meeting our Florida readers and supporters. Make sure to stop by our booth at Spectrum Miami and grab a complimentary copy of the ArtTour International Anniversary Issue, which promises to be stunning.

On our online broadcasting channel, we have a great selection of video presentations for you to watch, including all past episodes of the ArtTour International TV show on MNN, exclusive interviews, exhibition clips and behind-the-scenes films with artists, exclusively brought to you by ATIM! Log on to our online channel now and enjoy www.youtube.com/user/ArtTourIntMAGAZINE. We enjoy reading your emails and feedback and promise to keep bringing you a unique art magazine. We want to go beyond the canvas and

share with you where inspiration is born. We have lots of great news and articles for you, and we invite you to join us each time, as we take you on a voyage through the wonderful world of art.

Subscribers to ArtTour International Magazine have exclusive online access to free content and inside news exclusives, which are for members only. Also, our readers can also engage with our columnists through our members’ blog.

We're very excited to share this issue with you and think you will enjoy both our print and our online magazines. Feel free to contact me directly with any suggestions. We're working hard to bring you a magazine you will love, and we look forward to your feedback.

Thanks for your support,

Viviana Puello Editor-in-Chief ArtTour International Magazine Note: If you are interested in becoming a contributing writer send us an email to vp@arttourinternational.com

®

CONTRIBUTORS ArtTour International Magazine “Created by Artists for the Artists of Today”

ALSO AVAILABLE ON DIGITAL FOR DOWNLOAD!

EDITOR IN CHIEF: VIVIANA PUELLO Founder of ArtTour International Magazine Creator of the ATIM Web TV Channel & Art 2 Heart Email: vivianapuello@arttourinternational.com VIDEO/GRAPHIC DIRECTOR: ALAN GRIMANDI Director of the ATIM Web TV Channel Email alan.grimandi@arttourinternational.com WEB DESIGN: Humberto José Orozco

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ON THE COVER

DISTRIBUTION: USA & Canada Contact: +1 (800) 807–1167 Europe Contact +39 (345) 167–7704 ARTIST ADVERTISING SERVICES Jeff Tubesa JeffTubesa@arttourinternational.com Tel 1 800 807-1167 Ext 112 COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING: Contact Your Local Sales Agent or email: info@arttourinternational.com Tel 1 800 807-1167 Ext 107

Please help us protect visual artists rights. The copyrights of all published artwork are retained by the artists. Published by Arttour International Publications Inc. 45 Rockefeller Plaza Suite 2000, New York, NY 10111 © Copyright 2017 ArtTour International Magazine. All copyrights are reserved by the authors. Reproduction of any published material without the written permission of the magazine's publisher is prohibited by law.

“Pattern Seekers VIII-Magnet core of Compact Muon Solenoid" Oil On Canvas, 43"x43" by Sheefali Asija

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Index

Cover Story

2017 Summer Issue

Page 16

Back Cover

Page 56

Sheefali Asija: “Pattern Seekers”

Katrin Alvarez

The Ever Expanding Limits Of Human Ingenuity

“The Power Of Thought”

by Viviana Puello

by Viviana Puello

Page 65

Page 74

ATIM Masters Award Ceremony

Page 10

“Dreamscapes”

Awarded “Artist Of The Year”

The Top 60 Masters of Contemporary Art Awarded In The Cradle Of The Renaissance!

An Art 2 Heart Interview with Sónia Domingues

by Viviana Puello

by Yadira Roman

by Thomas Liutas

Susan McCollough

Fabian Perez Unveils Portrait Of Argentina’s Presidential Family

by Diane Lanevi

Page 60

From Painting To Photography The Eye Catching Work Of Hélène DeSerres

by Viviana Puello

Page 30

Create 4 Peace Program

Page 86

“ATIM Messenger Of Peace” to artists: Stefan Duncan, Ed Moret, Fatima Al Obaidi, O. Yemi Tubi

Featured Artists Aldo Basili Banjerd Lekkong Barbara Moore Brian Rock Charles Whiting Cornelia Steckan Eric Wiles Frans Frengen Ginevra Pruneti Jeong-Ah Zhang Jorge Rivas Karly & Anne V. Leonid Grishin Phyllis I Jaffe Riya Sharma Sveta Long Xia Li

Page 48 Page 28 Page 40 Page 80 Page 34 Page 46 Page 42 Page 82 Page 85 Page 71 Page 54 Page 38 Page 52 Page 51 Page 44 Page 50 Page 56

TM

INTERVIEWS

An Art 2 Heart Interview with Sónia Domingues

by Viviana Puello

Photo courtesy of Caras Magazine. Copyright © 2017 Augusto Abel Dias - Caras Magazine. All rights reserved.

A

ward-winning artist and designer Sónia Domingues excels with her creations in all mediums. Sonny, as she is known, has explained her art more like dreamscapes. "My paintings emerge from dreams, I want to take strolls through all artistic styles, showing my vision of them." She is not afraid to experiment and to exist outside the boundaries of each genre of art and creates great compositions of unexpected and intrinsic details. with a well developed figurative technique.

Domingues is widely known for her glass paintings, and this medium contributes to the vibrancy of the works and the colors she brings to life. Domingues has a bold and masterful use of colors, and quite often it's the subject matter that leads the direction in her painting. Her “Personalities” collection has the likes of Marilyn Monroe with bright yellow hair and crimson 10 | SUMMER 2017

lips in a pop art style and a gauzy white flower over her face, perhaps depicting a fragility that is easy to miss with a title "Marilyn, me? I'm A Flower A White Orchid".

The glass painting technique that creates cracks superimposed on an otherwise perfect image works well and give us a deeper understanding of Sonia www.arttourinternational.com

Domingues artistry. Beautiful faces marked by the cracks on the stained glass could have a deeper meaning, cracks of celebrity, flawed beauty or perhaps the cracking of a mask. It is more broody than the rest of the collection with whimsical portraits of artists like Sarah Brightman, Vanessa Paradis looking ethereal and fairy-like.

Her latest work depicting the decadent history of the Palácio C h i a d o h a s wo n h e r m a j o r international critical acclaim. In the collection comprising of five works, she uses a faceless Butler to take the viewer through the five stages of the rise and fall of this iconic palace. Each of the five scenes painted using mixed media techniques on canvas.

The scenes depict different periods in history “The Tragedies”, fire and the earthquake culminating in the extravagant and decadent descent to banality. The passion captured by the bold use of crimson colors and to amber colored liquid poured out of bottles like liquid gold. The collection has earned Domingues prestigious i nte r n at i o n a l awa rd s , m o s t recently, the ATIM Masters Awards by ArtTour International Magazine.

With her gentle essence, and courageous vulnerability placed on a canvas Sonny creates a powerfully subtle shift in her world. www.arttourinternational.com

“Palácio Chiado Collection: Nr. I The Tragedies" Mixed Media On Canvas, 63"x43"

Do you remember your first encounter with art, when did you know would become an artist?

"One day someone very wise, told me something that I have never forgotten: 'It was not me who chose Art, Art has chosen me.'

Well, only life could show me if this statement would be fulfilled in me...

The paths of life, gently, have created encounters that have become significant, like a light that guides and shows the way forward. Inside me, I knew the answer...

In my Prayers, I asked our wonderful Creator to help me discover the profession that would complete me as a human being, and the answer arose precociously at age 14, becoming more audible at age 16 and inevitable at 18."

Please tell us about your main influences. What was a major one at home?

"As an only child, my Mom and my Dad have always been my references, by Cont. Next Page

SUMMER 2017 | 11

“Palácio Chiado Collection: Nr. II Farrobodó & À Grande e á Francesa" Mixed Media On Canvas, 63"x43"

“Palácio Chiado Collection: Nr. III Vivifying Tea & Hybrid Guitar Harp" Mixed Media On Canvas, 63"x43"

the education and by the principles that they transmitted to me. Faith in the two most important people in the universe, our Wonderful Creator and his son, Jesus, are included and by love and gratitude, makes us wish that they are always present in our Lives.

My parents and I have our very own ideals, but with the same essence, the principles that guide our lives are the same ... We value the same qualities, such as love, loyalty, altruism, friendship, and truthfulness.

“Palácio Chiado Collection: Nr. IV The Butler Becomes Protagonist" Mixed Media On Canvas, 63"x43"

uniting my taste with that of the customer, which sometimes includes the personal taste of the architect or the decorator too, always with the desire to be pleasing to all. With the slowdown in the world economy, I became more available for a freer conception, where my desires and artistic dreams began to show themselves more freely.

Today, even if I have a challenge or one particular thematic, the art I create, is increasingly coherent, with what I desire to accomplish.

Still, teenager, I met, whom today is my husband, the 3rd most influential person in my life, who understands me only by looking and sharing the same dreams."

My wish is to achieve, materialize the numerous projects that occupy my mental space."

How would you describe your style?

Can you tell us about your creative process?

It's not easy to talk about myself; I prefer that others classify my artistic style, instead of myself, but I will try...*) ...My artistic style is versatile, diversified, I paint on all kind of surfaces, since screen or canvas, oil, acrylic and stained glass in the maximum security dimension, always with the desire to create different themes and compositions. I believe I present a very contemporary artistic spirit, with the presence of the figurative, the Preponderant Symbolism, using Cubism and Geometric Abstractionism as soft spices, touching in the Art Nouveau” and in the Surrealism...!"

"The entire process is critical to me… the mental conception of the work energizes me to bring it to reality.

My full commitment, care and attention, become essential to achieve a good result. My works are based on great detail as if it were an embroidery or tracery!

How has your style changed over the years?

"I always made art under clients requests, personalized, www.arttourinternational.com

During the materialization of art, I use diversified techniques and supports each one singular and with characteristics which demand a lot of me impelling my body and soul to a full focus. For instance, working in stained glass of large dimensions I often have to imbue me with a great spirit of sacrifice when I work almost suspended and with a protective mask for several hours in a row.

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SUMMER 2017 | 13

Sacrifices aside, even so, Art is so important in my life like the air that oxygenates my cells."

What elements of the world around you inspire you and your work the most?

"My Inspiration emerges from the depths of the oceans to the universe, with passion, love, and emotion, always with the desire to create different themes and compositions. So, everything can inspire me, but, the creative essence maybe begins in the heart, a state of peace and harmony with everything that surrounds me. And then, with my heart set on a creative energy, I'm inspired by all that is incommensurable beautiful - from the human beauty to the animal kingdom without forgetting all kind of landscapes.

The engine that energizes my inspiration is lovely musical compositions, whether erudite, remastered or simply hits of the moment and finally the movement’ and fluidity.'

The flow of the water in the oceans, the powerful waves of the sea, its clear and crystalline waters, the marine fauna and flora involved by this fluidity, the water flow of the rivers skirting the pebbles. I appreciate so much also the creation of organic themes, in connection with Nature! Inspiration can also be simply letting go, and suddenly, I verbalize ... I have an idea *)."

What would you like viewers to take away from your paintings?

"I would feel pleased and thankful if the viewers feel enchanted by the history behind the work and if they see a perfect connection between idealization and realization, recognizing in the works an original style and extracting real feelings.

And it would be a sign that my artistic dreams will become a reality, in the fullness..!

Even when a work of mine shows something sad or tragic, it can evoke hope and in the representation of something more exuberant, and show beauty in all its splendor, for I love to portray and exalt the beautiful."

Let’s fast-forward to today. How do you work, what’s your typical day like?

"Each day is different, and it can start very early and end a little late. I may have business trips or scheduled visits in our Atelier / Gallery that’s why a sharped 14 | SUMMER 2017

“Palácio Chiado Collection: Nr. V An Extravagant Escape From The Banal" Mixed Media On Canvas, 63"x43"

planning is a key to balance my time between my appointments and the creative process. When I can choose and if there’s no interference, a perfect day for my artistic achievements, begins at 10 am at my Atelier, after a very nutritious breakfast.

The following step is to choose 'the soundtrack’ which will accompany my creative morning. Sometimes I put the music in loop effect to not lose the same creative frequency’, the creative epicenter. By noon, I prepare lunch for myself and my husband, with the same delivery and passion, as I consider cooking a creation of 'eatable Art.' On a perfect creative day, I take time for relaxing, having fifteen to thirty minutes break. By mid-afternoon, chocolate and Greek yogurt usually call me for a pause so that my Inspiration continues to smile and keep on going until 7 pm.

After dinner, I respond to correspondence/ emails, and along with my husband, we walk for half an hour, exercise and relax. Reading and praying are also in my daily routines before sleeping and perhaps dreaming of new works, allowing a peaceful rest or making me stand up to sketch the artistic dream I just had, to perform at the right time, catching the moment, the message and the inspiration!"

www.soniadomingues.pt www.arttourinternational.com

“Fall In Drops” 2015, Oil On Canvas, 18"x24"

Cover Artist

Sheefali Asija: “Pattern Seekers”

The Ever Expanding Limits Of Human Ingenuity

by Viviana Puello

A

ward winning artist Sheefali Asija follows a unique thematic approach in her body of work, exploring forms and patterns through a topic which is fresh and innovative. Her work is an artistic statement with a bold message relevant to contemporary issues within our society. Her conceptual focus is the depiction of machines that embody scientific progress and the ever-expanding limits of human ingenuity machines such as the particle detectors and accelerators of the Large Hadron Collider at CERN and the F1 rocket engines that powered the first stage of the Saturn V moon rocket of the NASA Apollo missions.

Asija's technical approach considering the depiction of this machinery is one which focuses predominantly on surfaces with clearly defined, bold colors and motifs that stem from the general design of the machine itself. Cables, sheets of metal and electronics form intricate patterns that combine and structure a final result which is surprisingly artistic and aesthetic, considering that its roots and inspiration stem out of a functional, scientific object.

It is the fusion of art and science, a decision of Asija which has both practical and theoretical implications, as it suggests that these branches of human culture and progress should not be isolated from each other, but rather combine and work together.

As an artist, Asija is excited that her creations require applied mathematics having to use various ratios and proportions to deliver on t h e exa c t i n g p e r s p e c t i ve of t h e s e enormous machines. By implementing this accuracy, she successfully harmonizes her concept with her painting and brings forward all these elegant patterns as an artistic expression which aims at creating an open dialogue with the public.

Asija’s images in her new series “Pattern Seekers” refer to stories of hope and optimism, leaving open space for the viewer to determine the interpretation of the imagery. It is a series of paintings which is not only scientific and artistic but also inspires social awareness, as she invites the viewer to realize the way that our society evolves in all aspects.

Artist Sheefali Asija in her studio in London. Photo courtesy of Sheefali Asija. Copyright © 2017.

“Pattern Seeker V-Hadron Calorimeter For The Compact Muon Solenoid" Oil On Canvas, 72"x72"

Though art has been an integral part of her life, it was until over thirteen years ago that Asija committed herself to an artistic career. " R i c h a rd P. Fey n m a n wa s a b r i l l i a n t experimental physicist, an inspirational teacher, a philosopher, an artist and a bongo player. But it is as an artist I have been propelled along by his question – ‘Is no one inspired by our present picture of the Universe? This value of science remains unsung by singers; you are not reduced to hearing not a song or poem, but an evening lecture about it. This is not yet a scientific age.'

He went on to say, 'What men are poets who can speak of Jupiter if he were a man, but if he is an immense spinning sphere of methane and ammonia must be silent?”

Asija's exploration has led her work with a new direction, one that integrates scientific developments within an artistic expression, as she depicts geometric compositions that Cont. Next Page

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“Pattern Seeker XII: F1 In Orange And Yellow” Oil On Canvas, 71.6"x59.8"

“Pattern Seeker X - Beam Pipe In The ATLAS Cavern” Oil On Canvas, 49"x21.6"

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SUMMER 2017 | 17

All these characteristics of Sheefali Asija define her progressive concepts which are an integral part of her a r t i s t i c ex p re s s i o n . He r artworks lie at the very core of contemporary art due to their theme and their realization, while at the same time she envisions through her art our future as a society, with the notion of progress at the core of our evolution.

“Pattern Seekers I - Liquid Argon End Cap Of ATLAS” Oil On Canvas, 72"x36"

18 | SUMMER 2017

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“Pattern Seeker IV-Tracker Barrel Of Compact Muon Solenoid" Oil On Canvas, 72"x23"

“Pattern Seeker XI - Core Of Compact Muon Solenoid" Oil On Canvas, 71.6"x71.6"

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SUMMER 2017 | 19

“Pattern Seeker II-ATLAS" Oil On Canvas, 72"x48"

“Pattern Seeker VI-Name TBD" Oil On Canvas, 48"x39"

20 | SUMMER 2017

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“Pattern Seeker IX - Solenoid Magnet Of Compact Muon Solenoid” Oil On Canvas, 43.3"x43.3"

a re i n fl u e n c e d b y t h e s t o r y o f h u m a n i t y ' s achievements such as NASA's Apollo missions, and the coming together of global scientific community at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN in Geneva.

“Today we have built ourselves the largest machine ever constructed: the Large Hadron Collider at CERN in Geneva, Switzerland where we smash together subatomic particles and read the resulting patterns in an attempt to understand the very nature of our existence - investigating the very small to understand the very large.

In this series of paintings, I have used the images of Large Hadron Collider particle detectors and components of the Apollo mission's Saturn V F1 rocket engines and reduced the various forms to simple geometric shapes to create patterns and rhythms

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reminiscent of the ceilings and stained glass windows of cathedrals of the past, the mandalas and meditation wheels of the metaphysical cosmos. Now the sense of awe and wonder is no longer evoked by our layering of a religious, mythological narrative over the world but by what we are now discovering about the very nature of our reality through a global effort of scientific inquiry.”

All these characteristics of Sheefali Asija define her progressive concepts which are an integral part of her artistic expression. Her artworks lie at the very core of contemporary art due to their theme and their realization, while at the same time she envisions through her art our future as a society, with the notion of progress at the core of our evolution.

www.sheefaliasija.com SUMMER 2017 | 21

Back Cover Artist

“In Good Hands'' Oil On Canvas + Objects, 26''x37''x3''

Katrin Alvarez “

e Power Of

by Viviana Puello

“Premio Alla Carriera” Award 2017

ought”

T

he impacting image on the back cover of this issue is a masterpiece by awardwinning artist Katrin Alvarez. "The Power Of Thought" was also published in the interior pages of the ATIM Top 60 Masters 2017, our annual publication that compiles sixty of the m o s t re c o g n i z e d m a s t e r a r t i s t s i n t h e international art scene. ArtTour International was proud to present the award "Premio Alla Carriera" to master artist Katrin Alvarez, in recognition for a very successful career, and for her dedication and excellence in the arts. Only one "Premio Alla Carriera" is presented each year, and we are honored to recognize this great artist of our times.

Award-winning master artist Katrin Alvarez is known for her compelling, dreamlike, surreal paintings that represent the complexity of human situations. Alvarez focuses on the human figure while introducing multiple references such as objects, animals, etc. to enrich the composition conceptually as well as visually.

Katrin Alvarez started as a journalist, going indepth into the writing profession, but along the way she taught herself the art of painting, influenced and inspired by Michelangelo and Brueghel.

“The Power Of Thought'' Oil On canvas + Object, 41''x49''x4''

“Lost'' Oil On Canvas, 26''x30''

Katrin Alvarez creates works that bring me back to that moment when I was a child and looked at a masterpiece for the first time. You know you are in the presence of greatness, and words are not enough to describe it. Alvarez is a master artist who not only has an excellent technique, which is the result of many years of dedication but someone who has a message and is devoted to sharing that message through her work. Not only is her message profound, but it is also a message that many prefer not to hear. It takes courage to touch the issue of child abuse because a significant part of the audience prefers to look at something simpler than to have to deal with all these emotions that the subject evokes. We are sensitive, we don't like to hear about children being abused, but it is a fact, it happens, and very few artists are brave enough to go there. Alvarez does, and she does it in a not-apologetic way.

She is bold and direct and a great expressionist.

Her work is surrealism created by a soul influenced by journalism, so it has a great narrative. It is provoking and soothing, and it cannot be ignored, you will either love it or hate it, but it will for sure evoke strong emotions, it will never go unnoticed, this, is the greatness of her art. I love it!

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“Pain'' Colored Pencil On Board + Object, 14''x18''x2''

“Till Death Do Us Part” Oil On Canvas, 33,5”x25”

Hidden inside each of Katrin Alvarez' paintings is a mood that is impossible to miss, the artist takes her audience on a visual journey as witnesses of people in different stances and circumstances along with elements that make an impact, slowly managing to blend in and propose some radical aesthetic and conceptual ideas.

Alvarez's works are the perfect combination of expressionism and surrealism. Her paintings are troubling and provoking yet soothing, intimate and sensitive yet bizarre, upsetting yet blissful. The compelling and transcendent imagery in her art has a form of teaching, evoking an array of emotions in the viewer. Her masterful use of color and light and skilled knowledge of the human figure allows for perfectly balanced compositions that expand the perceptions of her audience, creating room for each viewer to form different self-interpretations of the art.

Showcasing masterful drawing skills, Katrin Alvarez depicts all of the figures and other objects or elements on her canvas with exact precision, something that shows her work is the product of dedicated research. Alvarez uses the gaze in her subjects’ eyes as the focal point of her pieces carrying a full palette of fascination, the

“Stupid Accident” Oil On Canvas + Object, 17”x21.5”

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“Easy Prey” Oil On Canvas, 28”x28”

result, paintings that are thought-provoking, making use diverse media to have a multidimensional approach.

Alvarez uses references that have an innate symbolic side tied to them and thus demand time to be decoded and understood. It is like watching a visual dialogue of images, where words are silent, and symbols become protagonists, carrying messages and ideas along with them. Just having a look at artworks like “Pain” is enough to understand that she is a truly conceptual artist. She uses a symbol of the technological intrusion that is happening in society, as a topic extremely relevant in the contemporary context and one that demands a careful artistic approach as well as a philosophical one.

Katrin Alvarez offers both personal and universal 26 | SUMMER 2017

messages, as she aims to raise awareness and establish a fruitful discussion with her public considering a vast number of topics that need more consideration. Thus it is very natural that she structures her artistic expression in a way that invites active participation from the audience for the interpretation of her works. The viewer finds in her narrative the love and compassion of one who creates from a perfect point of inspiration. Transcending the barriers of human limitations that the ego imposes on each one of us, and reaching out to the highest and deep places of one's being. A sense of oneness is evident in Alvarez's works, which leave a lot open to interpretation, evoking emotions and creating for the viewer a unique and unforgettable experience.

Alvarez is an internationally renowned artist whose works have been exhibited all over the www.arttourinternational.com

“Trauma" (2009) Oil On Canvas + Objects, 33.5”x25.5”x2”

world. She has received many awards for her paintings since 1968, including The First Group show in Cologne in 1968, Art Basel in Switzerland in 1978, and Agora Gallery in New York in 2004, among others. In 2007, her piece Exorcism won the Allan Edwards Award - Painting On the Edge. In 2009, she received the Vivid Arts Network Award at the Museum Castello Estense and a Leonardo Award for Applied Arts in which she was given the first prize in 2013. In 1972, she received an award for her first solo show in Cologne, and in 2012 she came out with yet another celebration in Vienna.

Katrin Alvarez' diverse and vibrant work is what has promoted her as an artist who has established her presence in the global art scene as a distinguished contribution to her creativity.

www.katrin-alvarez.de Artist Katrin Alvarez during the ATIM Masters Award Ceremony where she was presented with the “Premio Alla Carriera” 2017 by ArtTour International Magazine

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SUMMER 2017 | 27

Banjerd Lekkong “New Depths Of Perception”

by Viviana Puello

B

anjerd Lekkong creates beautiful, wrought, steel sculptures of intrinsic details that depict characters of Hinduism both as single figures and full action scenes. With figures of Hindu Gods that stand up to six feet tall, well poised, full of grace and serenity or dancing and flying the artist proposes an unseen, contemporary view of his subject.

Upon closer observation, the viewer will discover that each one of Benjerd's works has been created by smaller curvy figures that interconnect to form one single body. This fascinating technique intrigues the audience and invites to a close examination of all the elements of the compo-sition.

Lekkong's bold, dynamic, carefully orchestrated multi-layer sculptures explore concepts of unity and interconnectivity opening new, unexpected perspectives to the viewer. A unique concept that draws his audience in for the observation of the smaller sculpted bodies entwined with one another that narrate a different story from that one of the central image.

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“Different Time, Different Period" Iron, 45"x39"x24"

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Proposing a deeper study of Hinduism using steel and iron to deliver his message, Lekkong’s sculptures attest to the statement that they are an art of intelligence stimulating an awakening and evoking a different outlook on the usual stories, norms, and cultures of Hinduism as they are heard and viewed. Through the masterful use of form and a brilliant creativity, he speaks a new language to the world of art and succeeds in making unfamiliar what is usually familiar.

An accomplished architect and interior designer, Banjerd Lekkong is an artist w h o re c o n s t r u c t s t h e perception of his viewers. Original from Thailand he lives and works in Bangkok.

“Ravana’s Standing" Iron, 80"x80"x20"

www.lekkong.com

“La Vache Sacree", Mixed Media Sur Toile, 24"x30"

From Painting To Photography e Eye Catching Work Of Hélène DeSerres

by Viviana Puello

A

ward winning painter and fine art photographer Hélène DeSerres is well known for her art in various media. Her interdisciplinary ranges from acrylic paintings and sculpture to photography.

DeSerres paints in a variety of styles, including abstract, impressionist, and realist, and her work incorporates varied media. She often photographs her subjects, using the photos as reference points for her paintings.

Describing art as her "oxygen," DeSerres cares deeply about the environment and protecting animals.

Natural landscapes, majestic creatures, and bold 30 | SUMMER 2017

pigments are prominent features of her work.

Aquatic environments and plants are other natural mainstays of DeSerres' works. Most often, these are illustrated in an impressionistic style. In her new abstract series, DeSerres takes a storytelling approach with each stroke using intricate artistry -carefully orchestrated compositions of bold colors that come to life with a spontaneous twist, splashing elements that add drama and depth. The result is eyecatching works of simultaneous contrast that invite the viewer to new worlds of imagination.

“Samburu Series” Fine Art Photography. Copyright © Helene DeSerres 2017.

All rights www.art tourreserved. international.com

“Danseur Joyeux" Acrylique On Canvas, 30”x40"

Hélène DeSerres delivers with tenderness and truth. She can introduce striking disparity to muted backgrounds, each decision skillfully made. She playfully uses realistic images as focal points on abstract backgrounds, welcoming waves of creativity. Using the canvas as a part of a new world she creates, DeSerres allows objects to trickle their way off the canvas.

Making use of every tool in hand, she brings to life timeless pieces, incorporating the laws of art and making some of her own.

When it comes to her photography, a fresh, pure vision is found throughout all of her work uncovering the transcendent elements of her subjects. She creates well-balanced dynamic compositions reflecting a painterly eye for light and color and a keen eye for detailed. Adept at capturing the soul and essence of a person as well as at catching a tree's surface or a flower's petal with a textured close-up.

“Soleil Couchant" Mixed Media On Canvas, 20”x20"

Cont. next page...

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SUMMER 2017 | 31

“Samburu Series” Fine Art Photography. Copyright © Helene DeSerres 2017. All rights reserved.

“Samburu Series” Fine Art Photography. Copyright © Helene DeSerres 2017. All rights reserved.

“Samburu Series” ese eye-catching images invite the viewer to explorations of a culture on the brink of extinction. As globalization and digitization become the end of many of African's tribes, and their traditional ways of life and their contact with modernization threatens to change their way of life forever.

“Samburu Series” Fine Art Photography. Copyright © Helene DeSerres 2017. All rights reserved.

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A world traveler, Hélène DeSerres has been shooting expansive scenes of mother nature in different countries, sometimes finding people in their natural habitat as her subject, transforming images into great compositions of flow and light, color, boldness, and ever-evolving form. In her award-winning series "Samburu," shot during her most recent trip to Kenya, DeSerres presents subtle and arresting photographs of The Rift Valley, a province known for its dry and somewhat barren land. DeSeres takes a storytelling a p p ro a c h to e a c h p h oto c re a t i n g c a re f u l ly orchestrated compositions that remain as witnesses of sublime moments spent with the locals. From Samburu dancers to mothers with their infants, every photograph has something new, something unique and expressible to show her viewers. These eyewww.arttourinternational.com

“Poppy Heart” Fine Art Photography

catching images invite the viewer to explorations of culture on the brink of extinction. As globalization and digitization become the end of many of African's tribes, and their traditional ways of life and their contact with modernization threatens to change their way of life forever.

This intersection of sculpture, photography, and architecture is always fascinating in her work. And, her interest in design does not end here. She also explores the reflection of buildings on the water. Several of her photographs depict wobbly, almost formless puddles of water in which the outlines of a building can just be made out. Whether in glass or water, then, DeSerres is very interested in the way in which reflections can enable us to see architectural forms in a new way. She makes the mundane reality of architecture strange and uncanny by warping it slightly.

Such vibrancy within color and intimacy that evokes within each image of this grand artist's work is continuously luring her viewers in from a place of love, skill, and commitment.

www.hdeserres.com “Afterlife” Fine Art Photography

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SUMMER 2017 | 33

Charles Whiting

by Yadira Roman

“Gore Range” Summit County, Colorado, Digital Photography

C

harles Whiting is an American photographer who has focused his work mainly on depicting natural landscapes, both in mountainous or coastal areas that encompass the diversity of nature and propose its beauty as the ultimate goal of the artist. Human-made objects can also be seen in his pictures, but they are frequently s i t u a te d w i t h i n t h e n a t u r a l environment, usually blending harmonically and becoming an integral part of it.

Regarding technique, the photographs exhibit remarkable clarity, presenting the desired 34 | SUMMER 2017

“Rocky Mountain Iris" Eagles Nest Wilderness, Colorado, Digital Photography

theme in its full splendor, with vibrant colors and defined shapes. This is a feature which is vital in the overall composition of the image, a process which is very demanding regarding precision, requiring a high degree of knowledge as framing can be very hard to balance when dealing with landscapes that have two, three or even four levels of depth. Thus the viewer might experience a composition which starts from some shrubs Cont. Next Page

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“Wheels" Breckenridge, Colorado, Digital Photography

“Sunset Reflections" Crested Butte, Colorado, Digital Photography

“Cataract Falls" Eagles Nest Wilderness, Colorado, Digital Photography

36 | SUMMER 2017

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“Columbines and Rust" Crested Butte, Colorado, Digital Photography

near to the camera, moves on to a dense forest, then to a majestic mountain range and finally to a clear blue sky that serves as the ultimate b a c kg ro u n d . T h i s t r a n s i t i o n i s s m o o t h l y c re a t e d , a n d i t i s a te c h n i q u e t h at s h owc a s e s t h e excellent precision that Whiting has regarding structure, when it comes to staging his desired landscape, balancing and maintaining clarity on all levels. There is also a cautious approach regarding implementing lighting into his creations, as it is a c e n t r a l t o o l t o c re a t e s m o o t h transitions and bold visual contrasts that illuminate the climactic areas of the picture. Underlined by the chromatic contrasts that he tends to implement, like for example the clear blue sky with the yellow foliage of the Aspen trees that act almost like brushstrokes on an Impressionist painting, with a rich, bold visual energy that dominates the overall picture. The concept behind these complex, yet elegant photos, is promoting and underlining the beauty that can be found in our world, exhibiting the full range of emotions that originate from such images, like www.arttourinternational.com

“Silvery Lupine" Summit County, Colorado, Digital Photography

tranquility and magnificence.

All these characteristics shape the artistic profile of Charles Whiting, a photographer who delves deep into the intricate details of a picture and unearths all these delicate features that ultimately promote his concept behind the photographs. It is a process that requires dedication and in-depth knowledge of compositional skills, as it demands from the artist a robust approach to composing it harmonically and balanced.

www.charleswhitingphotography.com SUMMER 2017 | 37

“

I

e Emptiness”

By Viviana Puello

n the world of art, singular passion and expression are often seen as par for the course. Rarely are collaborative efforts ever seen beyond the scope of curiosity, or as a mere functional exercise between two artists. This paradigm, however, is shifted forever after one views the collaborative works of French artists Karly, and Anne V. Before one focuses on the style and method used on their collaborative relief paintings, one cannot escape the essence of the synergy that their finished works express.

The art of Karly and Anne V is a clear demonstration of the oneness and interconnectedness of creation. When Karly, a cognitive psychology expert, and Anne V, a knowledgeable art historian and trained cabinetmaker, came together to collaborate on art pieces, the results were ethereal.

The productive synergy between form and color used by these two artists captures the eye of the viewers with their unique perspective of the concepts of emptiness. Much like that scientific discipline, their collaborative work invokes a sense of salience. No element of their work, be it form, scale or color is mundane. With creations that range from floormounted and wall-mounted sculptures and paintings, to those that are suspended, Karly and Anne V know how to incorporate dimensional perspective to their art form.

Karly and Anne V's Creations strongly emphasize their approach. Their common taste for the origins of humanity led them to work together. They created new artistic writings and developed their technique to achieve hybrid works. The series "The Garden Of The U Mutants," sculptures built with painted canvas and fur, and the production "Empty Buildings," mixing different textiles and objects testify this. Adepts of diversity and staging, they take pleasure to invite different mediums at the same event.

They like to mix different materials in its strongest antagonists. Karly and Anne V. are protean artists.

They could also qualify themselves as theatrical producer as they dissect the themes on which they work. They extract elements to create a counter-current that they develop in several sequences, similar to theatrical production where scoff and seriousness come together! Karly and Anne V also claim the status of noisemakers because when their senses are exacerbated, they consider more the phenomenal side of their perceptions by visualizing the possibility of creating themselves these phenomena as demonstrated with « The Beings Of The Water.»

They, therefore, alternate between the state of restitution and the state of noisemakers by staging which the central goal is to confront the visitors with different anthropomorphic glimpses of the emptiness. Finally, they practice like archaeologists, with the difference that they are searching the emptiness to highlight its civilizations and the reason for nature concerning the “nothing," the "nothingness," and the "death."

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“La Creature De Nunc" Sculpture

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“Girl" Tires Of Cars, Spray Paint 63"x31"x24"

“Boy" Tires Of Cars, Spray Paint 63"x31"x24"

As a testament to what two kindred spirits can do, each of these two artists unleashes their particular talent exclusively within a given plane.

Anne V brings forth her talent for dimensional artistry by creating the form and frame, while Karly infuses her artistic magic of color and luster with paint. Each artist brings forth her best independently. The essence of the concluding piece is thus obtained from what seems to be a pre-ordained complimentary fusion of their talents. Their pieces will take viewers away from reality. It makes people stare, dream, and imagine. They will awaken a sense of appreciation for what collaborative art represents -- a synergistic form of conveying a message by tapping into the minds and emotions of those who observe it. It is the sort of art that one is drawn to repeatedly for the depth of meaning that one can draw from it.

www.karlyetannev.com

“Strange Girl" Sculpture

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SUMMER 2017 | 39

Barbara Moore “Art In Every Corner”

F

by Yadira Roman

ine art photographer Barbara Moore brings forward intriguing elements that demand a very careful approach to the composition. She is a self-taught photographer, always refining and enhancing her artistic prowess to produce thought-provoking photographs.

Her work focuses on different subjects, ranging from landscape to nature and abstract photography. One of the most visually striking and masterful skills of Moore's photography is the way that she depicts landscapes, a theme common in photographers but through her eyes and pictures transforms into a majestic display of the splendor that surrounds us. Moore seizes the opportunity of taking a picture which is at the same time raw and beautiful but also extremely well defined and composed, making excellent use of artistic elements to become something m o re t h a n a d o c u m e nt a r y n at u re photographer.

Barbara Moore's skillful use of light creates dramatic results that remind the viewer that beauty is something that often needs search and devoted research to uncover and manifest. Throughout her work light is not only a tool to handle the theme artistically and manage to structure the picture carefully, but it is also a way to convey the atmosphere of the given landscape.

“A Bit Of Heaven” Fine Art Photography

“Wise Men, On The Death Of A Fish” Fine Art Photography

In her abstract works, Moore usually depicts landscapes viewed in a way that obscures their original reference. Moore m a n a g e s t o t o y w i t h re a l i t y a n d perception, presenting us with landscapes that forge unusual and new patterns that establish a fruitful and exciting dialogue between the artist and the viewer.

The work of Barbara Moore is an awakening, a call that wishes to wake up society and support others in evaluating their use of sight, as she evokes the notion that art is everywhere. All these features complement her already rich and prestigious career which has spanned already for many years. www.barbmoorefineartphotography.com

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“Meander 2” Fine Art Photography

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ATIM’s Top 20 Fine Art Photographers This state-of-the-art publication features twenty of the most important emerging photographers of present times. An arts and culture documentary that celebrates humanity and our beautiful planet.

ATIM’s Top 20 Photographers will take you to an unimaginable journey to the world’s most exotic locations. Over a hundred pages lled with vivid, colorful images of fashion, photojournalism, and travel photography.

Artist on the covers: Mark James Ford, Riya Sharma, Hélène DeSerres

ArtTour International Magazine

@arttourinternational

@arttourinternational

@ArtTourIntMAGAZINE

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For information and artist submissions for participation in the 2018 issue of ATIM’s Top 20 Fine Art Photographers send an email with your submission to info@arttourinternational.com www.arttourinternational.com Published and Distributed by ArtTour International Publications, Inc. For more information email: info@arttourinternational.com or call 1 800 807-1167 © Copyright 2016. ArtTour International Publications Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any published material without written permission of the magazine's publisher is a prohibited by law.

“Winters Last Strom" Fine Art And Landscape Photography, 24"x24"

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orthern Ca. artist Eric Wiles Fine Art and Landscape photography reve a l s d y n a m i c i m a g e s of natural beauty and man made objects. His contemporary approach has propelled his work to exhibition at the Musée du Louvre and he has been recently nominated for the prestigious 10 annual International Color Awards. As one of ATIM TOP 20 photographers of 2016, his work can also be found in various mainstream magazines such as British GQ, Tatler, House and Garden, Elle Decoration, Art&Beyond, Glamour, and World of interiors to name a few.

“Colour Bubbles" Fine Art And Landscape Photography, 24"x24"

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“Bubble Feet" Fine Art And Landscape Photography, 24"x24"

www.ew-photo.com

Riya Sharma “Talking Eyes”

ArtTour International Magazine is proud to present the 2017 Featured Photographer on the back cover of the ATIM's Top 60 Masters 2017

T

he author of “Talking Eyes”, the striking image chosen for the back cover of the ATIM Top 60 Masters 2017 is award winning artist Riya Sharma. Sharma is an internationally renown travel photographer from India who creates works with an unrelenting focus and beautiful simplicity that has earned her a spotlight in the international art scene.

She has created a compelling artistic portfolio, being active in her home country, India, as well as in the U.S. where she has studied at the New York Institute of Photography.

Riya Sharma aims to capture moments in her photographs while sticking to her personal style and vision creating imagery that evokes a sense of connection, understanding, and integrity. The subjects of the photographs are moderately diverse, and the stylistic aspects remain relatively consistent 44 | SUMMER 2017

throughout her series.

Sharma's primary focus is the depiction and documentation of humans all around the world catching their everyday lives. Her images become the center of her work showcasing her artistic maturity despite her young age. Travel attractions, historic venues, poverty, social inequality, and beautifully orchestrated portraits are all within the parameters of Sharma’s photography. She captures all of these themes under the watchful eye of her stylistic approach and her wish to establish connections. Riya Sharma captures the core of the human soul inviting us to a new awareness and openness to cultural diversity and connection to humanity through the appreciation of the universes that surround us.

Carrying an excellent sense of lighting, she exploits www.arttourinternational.com

“Moonlight Tree'' Photography, 25''x40''

the natural outdoor light to create the contrasts and chromatic tensions of her pictures. She has learned to utilize every given moment to quickly balance in her mind the lights, shadows and the composition of her image creating an aesthetically pleasant result. As a topic that demands less spontaneity and a more wellthought process, she captures pictures that showcase exactly such characteristics, exhibiting images that balance between land, sky & water to create a compelling and artistic result.

Thematically, her creative work shows high levels of accomplishment, as it is a portfolio that depicts many common aspects of life in areas of the world portrayed through the eyes of an artist. Riya Sharma promotes each human as the protagonist, focusing on issues that resonate with each culture. The viewer can witness a full range of emotional states by exploring her work, showcasing the complexities people face in their everyday life.

We congratulate Riya Sharma and thank her for the creation of “Talking Eyes” featured on the back cover of the ATIM's Top 60 Masters Of Contemporary Art 2017. For her excellent work, dedication and career achievements, Riya Sharma has been a w a rd e d w i t h t h e AT I M Masters Award 2017 during a ceremony held in Florence, Italy on May 27th 2017.

New levels of understanding are created with every photograph she exhibits, and the relationships will last for long after the observer has left the gallery. While they may not look at the picture for decades to come, remembering it and being reminded of it has its own right.

Most recently, Riya Sharma, has met with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar to present him a fantastic digital painting portrait. During a very moving and intimate ceremony, Sharma had the opportunity to meet with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and exchange an inspiring, life-changing moment of blessings when she presented the digital painted created by the artist for this great spiritual leader. www.arttourinternational.com

“The Taj" Photography, 50"x60"

www.riyasharmaphotography.com SUMMER 2017 | 45

“Change 2015" Acrylic Original Paintig In Munich, 66"x31"

Cornelia Steckhan “Come Into Her World”

by Yadira Roman

C

“Mona Lisa Modern 2014" Acrylic Original Paintig In Imperial Beach, 31"x24"

alifornia-based, German artist Cornelia Steckhan's artworks balance between abstract and figurative art, creating a unique, personal style which has high relevance to the artistic heritage of Germany. Throughout her work, she employs a diverse and thoughtful approach, her use of bold, vibrant colors brings forward her compositions. This palette is supported by forms that act as the foundation of the painting. Her works incorporate the human figure, portraits, and objects that are distorted and focus on a sentimental - conceptual depiction, magnifying a raw representation. Her composition along with her skillful use of color mirrors a tribute to the German Expressionism of the first half of the 20th century.

A highly intriguing chapter of her work is the more abstract style that she often uses, an approach that focuses on experimentation regarding techniques, composition, and palette. One can note that she often uses many differing mediums, following the contemporary flow of German art. In essence, it can be seen as a continuation of her expressionistic work, as she retains the vibrant and conceptual aesthetics while reaching an artistic purity. Such a result is emerging from the freedom and visual strength that her creations emit, features that captivate her audience. Steckhan is consistent in delivering a rich thematic background of work. Her paintings generate an intimate connection as she lures the viewer in through waves of impact in every stroke of her brush. www.arttourinternational.com

“Corky Self-portrait 2014" Oil Painting, 38"x27"

www.corky-art.com SUMMER 2017 | 47

Aldo Basili

“

e Abstract Lens”

by Yadira Roman

I

talian photographer Aldo Basili has structured a uniquely personal style throughout his career showcasing his exceptional skill. An active artist who delivers consistency in offering works that bring forward many elements creating photographs that are not only masterful regarding realization but also deeply thoughtful and conceptually rich.

His most recent chapter of work focuses on pictures that transcend photography and create a depiction that can be paralleled to painting. This unique characteristic, often described as photopaintings, has been the focus of his work and exhibits interest for its unique a p p ro a c h . B a s i l i c re a te s b ro a d e r chromatic fields in his photographs that have a sense of movement and fluidity, transcending the static nature that photography often has. It is an act that vividly enhances colors and creates pictures that appear as impressionist paintings, where light and contrasting tones become the dominant factors of the composition. A technique that offers a new view of urban landscapes and the portrayal of people, as the audience witnesses something entirely unique to their experience.

“Rio Dei Meloni” Analogue Phototography On Film, Copyright Aldo Basili 2001. All rights reserved.

Basili transforms photography into an abstract form of art, a comment on the fluidity of time and society, which leaves nothing untouched and has an effect that when unearthed becomes evident and crucial. In essence, his artistic expertise is something recognized by his long presence in the community of contemporary art; he proves to be an individual that constantly wants to explore new ways of artistic expression showing that there can always be new forms and techniques that transcend any boundaries and any borders.

www.aldobasili.it

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“Il Medico Non Serve” Digital Phototography-Digitalart, Copyright Aldo Basili 2012. All Rights Reserved.

“Il Gondoliere” Analogue Photography On Film, Copyright Aldo Basili 2002. All Rights Reserved.

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SUMMER 2017 | 49

Sveta Long

“Faberge Creations With A Modern Twist”

A

by Viviana Puello

native of Russia, now based in North Carolina, USA, Sveta Long has a unique style given the name of "Faberge Art Deco." Her work is a colorful nod to the Faberge eggs and Art Deco era. A walk into the innovative window of her work is a precious gift to all.

Long's artistic techniques are a unique craft; she takes us into an imaginative world of play and craftsmanship drawing intricate lines, flowers, faces, and mermaids that catch the light to shimmer on vases, plates, fabrics, and eggs. She incorporates the use of kitchen appliances such as plates, cups, utensils, and a variety of objects to depict her abstract world.

Long has a love for all things that shimmer, and she brings her fresh new style to numerous things. What once was a form that was traditionally kept to elaborate and ornate painted eggs has expanded to multiple items. She began to recreate well known and highly desired Russian crafts, using designs that at some point were solely made for royalty. Her venture with this concept started at home, as she recreated and developed her household items.

The chances are that if you see a unique plate, fabric, vase, glass, or mug with intricate gold painting on it in the Faberge style, it might be one of Long's works. The style brought to mind the admired vintage intricate glory of Russian nobility and their possessions, transformed and made fresh in a completely new and inventive New World style.The pieces are not only frequently 3-D but pop out at you with vibrant and delicately contrasting colors, beautiful borders, and storytelling patterns. Such is the grand style of these Faberge and art deco items, which demand to be viewed and never go unobserved.

“Sugar Bowl” Ceramic, 9”x7”

Long's one of a kind creations, are colorful and vibrant in a sea of stuffy material things. Check out her stylish kettle adorned with elaborate snaking gold vines and white flower buds over a tea set that is a gorgeous shade of teal accompanying its viewer's desires of elegance and expression. Her work is both functional and expressive art.

Whether it's a long glass that you are drinking white wine out of or an immense plate that you are leaning against a wall in your home, Long's creations are truly unique and inspired. Her hands get ahold of all mediums and materials to bring to life the warm quality she carries within. Whether fabric or glass, Long has transformed her love for this modern art deco style and made it entirely her own.

Something from the old world, a bit of the new world integrated all into one to take place and share space in the heart of many. Sveta Long's top quality designs and creations compliment that of a polished hand and an eye for richness.

With a bit of Russian magic and a bit of American production, Long has burst onto the modern art scene with a bang. From vases to home sets, she brings a touch of Faberge Art Deco to everything she touches. Rooted from Faberge inspiration, applied to tangible objects-- Long is bringing a whole new wave of functionality to an older traditional style.

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“Burgundy Tapestry” Hand Made Glass, Acrylic

www.artbysveta.com

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Phyllis I Ja e

by Yadira Roman

“Taos Impression Series: Isthmus” Acrylic And Mixed Medium On Paper. 12”x12”

P

“Taos Impression Series: The River Run Through” Acrylic And Mixed Medium On Paper. 12”x12”

“Taos Impression Series: The Color Of Joy” Acrylic And Mixed Medium On Paper. 12”x12”

hylis I Jaffe is a contemporary painter with a long artistic career spanning for decades and exhibiting as early as the 1970s.

Throughout this long creative journey she has managed to formulate a highly personal and refined approach to abstract art, an approach which is both extremely elegant in terms of composition and color usage but robust and dynamic at the same time, managing to convey bold emotions and create strong connections to underlying notions.

The main body of her artistic work is predominantly abstract. Thus theme is something not concrete but rather a collection of symmetries or bold chromatic additions that manage to underline concepts inherent to her work. Her artistic approach is evidently about the great American movement of abstract expressionism, one of the most prominent artistic movements to ever emerge from the U.S.A. since the second world war and naturally, she manages to create artworks that are highly pleasant aesthetically despite their abstract theme.

“Taos Impression Series: Heat” Acrylic And Mixed Medium On paper. 12”x12”. 2017

One feature that needs to be understood is that abstraction in the case of Jaffe does not at any case mean randomness. Her approach to abstraction in a painting is a process which is both well thought and carefully delivered to maintain a perfect sense of balance in terms of composition and color usage. She is an artist that makes bold use of color to convey the emotions that she aims to, a process which is highly conceptual in nature as it demands careful consideration before placing each and every brushstroke.

Another prominent feature throughout her artistic work is the way that Jaffe manages to incorporate geometric drawing into her abstract style. It is an excellent feature that naturally leads to contribute substantially to the construction of a highly well-defined context that brings forwards other visual choices made by her. It is a characteristic that helps the general organization of the painting into more robust areas that manage to sustain their refined, elegant drawing, render them bold and retain drawing as an integral part of the final result instead of simply a feature that aids in the formulation of future shapes.

This geometric approach that she takes in many of her artworks is a characteristic that differentiates her from her roots in the abstract expressionism movement, as the majority of those artists explored almost exclusively a less structured form of expressions. It is also pivotal to explore the way that the element of movement is incorporated in the work of Jaffe as it is one of her most characteristic and successfully used features in her journey for aesthetic refinement. www.arttourinternational.com

“Taos Impression Series: Storm” Acrylic & Mixed Medium On Paper. 12”x12”

www.pgGallery.com

SUMMER 2017 | 51

Leonid Grishin “Taking Bold Leaps”

by Yadira Roman

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eonid Grishin has gained recognition for his mature and masterful approach towards art, as a sculptor earning grand recognition for some of his most notable artworks. His medium of preference is, bronze, he exploits its full expressional value and draws inspiration from some of the most admired sculptors of the 20th century, like Barbara Hepworth, Brancusi, and Henry Moore.

One of his most highlighted and reviewed works is “Reclining Figure Outside Paradise” which was made in 2011 and won the second prize from the European Confederation of Art Critics as well as an honorable mention for artistic merit from the Art Museum of Chianciano Terme the same year. It is a sculpture which showcases his compositional technique as he structures an elegantly reclining figure by employing broad, curved forms that further enhance the thematic background of his artwork. In essence, it is an example of how the material and drawing follows his concept and work together to propose a complete delivery for his audience.

“Creative Destruction of Adam,” made in 2015 is a piece which makes use of the technique as mentioned above which harmonizes form with 52 | SUMMER 2017

“Sacrifice / Matador's Mistake” Bronze Sculpture, 16.8”x12.8”x20”

material and concept, but this time having a much more complex composition. It utilizes three primary types, two being reminiscent of an active figure shielding the second, more passive one, while at the same time an abstract sphere is situated to the other side. This higher complexity offers a much more sophisticated interpretation, one that demands from the viewer an active part in the gradual unraveling of the conceptual background. Introducing a scope into his endless imagination, Grishin created “Sacrifice/Matador’s Mistake,” making use of new techniques and ideas that enrich his artistic profile. The experience of this piece focuses on a more figurative approach, presenting the www.arttourinternational.com

“Creative Destruction Of Adam” Bronze Sculpture, 26.7"x11.2"x19.6"

blending figures of a bull and a matador, locked in a deadly grip. It is a presentation of his works that showcases an excellent fluidity of movement which underlines its passionate nature and brings forward the climactic implement of the male figure.

The essence of Grishin’s work is bold, purpose filled and creates the space for ingenuity and important steps into one's life journey.

“I strongly believe that a truly good sculpture should have an active vitality, demonstrate architectonic stability, balance and harmony of plastic volumes and that it is very important to organize its space, make a sculpture actively interact with it and become a single whole with it.

A good sculpture should contain three aspects: a direct sense (what we see), a hint, that we can guess, and a secret meaning, which opens only to those who can see it and understand it.

A sculptor, who understood correctly and learned well from the lessons of the Great Teacher (Nature) is able to create works that will not only fit perfectly in the interior, but also complement the exterior architecture of a building great, in the same way the flowers, trees or clouds do it.

In my sculpture I do not go away from the aesthetic experience of this genre in its classic sense, because I believe, that we should not mix or confuse different concepts of the term "sculpture" and one should not call a "sculpture" if some object from a non-artistic space was simply moved to an artistic space as, for example, it is done in the "ready-made" technique...

Art in general, and the art of sculpture in particular may be a way or a channel for understanding of higher mysteries of the universe for a person. Depending on the status and contents of an artwork, it can help a person move to closer to God or to move away from Him. A sculpture is an instrument of communication, which I use to show the viewers a plastic interpretation of what I consider important, interesting or socially significant” Leonid Grishin

“Reclining Figure Outside Paradise” Bronze Sculpture, 21.2”x13.3”x18,5”

leonid.grishin@bk.ru SUMMER 2017 | 53

Jorge Rivas

“Neuro Optical Contemplative Art ”

by Yadira Roman

“Neuro-Optical Contemplation Art" Acrylic On Canvas, 64"x84"

J

orge Rivas speaks to the high vibrations of our minds through his "Neuro-Optical Contemplative Art." Self-taught and in his mid-sixties, the Venezuelan painter has always been a patron of modern art. Frequent museum visits have inspired the creativity within him, and now he produces unique aesthetically brilliant works. His paintings take advantage of human perception of sight and rely upon Neuroesthetics. As the viewer observes his works, he or she goes into a state of analysis, reflection and contemplative journey.

Rivas encourages viewers to shift their movements as they gaze at his works. Changing viewing angles creates a new image, on top of the first one. It is as if he 54 | SUMMER 2017

has merged two images, with the first image serving as the projector for the second virtual image. His work has evolved from simple aerial projections into infinite dimensions of continuous movement in geometry.

The spherical paintings hide the world within them and allow his viewers to experience changing optical realities.

Rivas's works have been showcased in multiple exhibitions around the globe including Venezuela, England, and America. He served as a curator for Spanish Colonial art for 14 years while in Venezuela. He has contributed to numerous publications, research and facilitated loans for Colonial art acquisition. www.arttourinternational.com

“Neuro-Optical Black And White" Acrylic On Canvas, 52"x60"

Rivas is a multi-talented artist, and his expertise includes Latin America art, Modern and Contemporary Art and architecture design. Creating marvels in the arts with his unique Neuro Optical Art approach. Making use of high contrasting colors, rich in vibrancy to enhance the stimulation triggered within his audience. Oering a broader view of the bigger picture, in both, life, and our world.

www.jorgerivasgallery.wixsite.com/jorgerivaspainternet

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SUMMER 2017 | 55

Xia Li

“A Joyous Blend Of Human Connection And Tradition”

by Viviana Puello

“Strong Youths Lead to Strong Country" Oil On Canvas, 94"x77"

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orn in Macau, in the beautiful Five Female Mountain in China in 1968, Xia Li discover art at early childhood. Through the years, Li has developed a unique style of ink portrait painting that 56 | SUMMER 2017

combines Chinese painting with modern Western painting techniques; Li uses Xuan paper and color ink to create what she calls 'Xia's Creative Ink Portrait Painting' and 'Chinese-Western Art.' www.arttourinternational.com

“Eight Horses" Ink On Paper 24"X97"

Xia Li graduated from Lu Xun Academy of Fine Arts and learned figurative painting from Professor Xu Yong, a leading painter of his time. During her studies, she created the series “The Stronger the Youth, the Stronger the Nation,” which is now a series of large scale Mongolian subject paintings.

She continued her studies with Professor Zhang Hui, recognized by his masterful gestural flower and bird paintings. In the meanwhile, she fully immersed herself in Chinese traditional calligraphy, music, Tai Chi, and sought a new visual language to express the essence of Chinese culture.

After moving to Los Angeles, Xia Li developed a keen interest in Western art and life-size portraits. She creatively combines the gestural spirit of Chinese painting and the realistic vocabulary of Western art, with the use of traditional medium to present western subjects.

Li finds inspiration from her travels and surroundings.

After a trip to Mongolia where she had the opportunity to spent time with the locals and join their daily routine, horse riding, milking cows and watching wrestling games, Xia Li was inspired to create a series of Mongolian wrestlers capturing their energy and vitality.

Her color palette is one that makes full use of the chromatic spectrum, following accurately the natural colors that occur in such forms, enhancing the beautiful reality of her paintings. This feature becomes one of the most important parts of her works as both imagination and accuracy are demanded to depict and enhance the image that you see, to produce an artwork which is even more compelling than reality.

The materials that she uses throughout her artistic work are similarly diverse, as she uses both thicker mediums like acrylics or oil color, but she also frequently paints with watercolors that produce thin, semi-transparent layers that interrelate and combine to produce the final result. It is a result which not only accurately depicts the scenes that Li chooses but also promotes their beauty, thus having a conceptual background of honoring the environment and witnessing these harmonious creations. The more urban scenes that she might include in her body of work follow the same ideas regarding structure, as they once again accurately depict reality and make use of the according to colors.

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“Love Songs In The Spring" Ink On Paper, 24"x98"

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“Delicious Food" Ink On Paper, 20"x24"

In her "Queen" painting, Li looks to portrait the internal conflicts of a queen's life. The contrast between power and vulnerability, instability and uncertainty, external disturbance and internal pressure, the joy of the kingdom and confidence of being in her position.

In the artist words "The Queen is yearning for a free life and freedom from the pressures that people bear reflect different for each."

Li's body of work is also influenced by Impressionism, one of the first and most important modern artistic movements, as it has been relevant to figurative painting since the late 19th century and is still being used and developed by artists like Xia Li. It is a personal reinterpretation of these teachings, to become the artistic expression of a contemporary artist of the 21st century who wishes to convey the beauty of our world to the public. It is a thematic background which is at the same time simple yet elegant and important, as it brings us in contact with scenes that are usually lost in the urban way of life, a loss which has been more apparent as time goes by.

Li's work consistently develops and reaches new heights, becoming an increasingly intriguing representation of reality through the eyes of a creator.

Honoring her roots she takes a step into the essence of her cultural background, encompassing China's traditional culture through her particular choice in use of color as well as space. A joyous blend of human connection within herself, her land, and her viewers.

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“China has great cultural and spiritual teachings; the West has a lot of excellent painting techniques, I feel the need to explore all of them continually. I want to combine my Chinese cultural background with the Western art skills I have learned so that I can create my language; it is Xia’s style, which is different from Chinese and also different from western, it is a blend of the two, it all becomes an international style. I will keep sharing the spirit of Chinese culture to the whole world, also sharing my experiences in Los Angeles, Japan and China through painting."

- Xia Li

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Museum of Arts and Design New York April 27th 2018

A multicultural celebration of peace! ®

SUBMISSIONS OPEN! www.atimtop60masters.com Tel 1 800 807-1167 Ext 701

Fabian Perez Unveils Portrait Of Argentina’s Presidential Family

by Diane Lanevi

President of Argentina Mauricio Macri posing with the Presidential Family portrait painted by Fabian Perez.. Photo courtesy of Fabian Perez. Copyright © 2017. All rights reserved.

W

hen the president of a country receives a presidential family portrait from one of his nation's most acclaimed contemporary artist, there is the joy of receiving the present of support and acceptance from his people. Such was the case for the President of Argentina, Mauricio Macri, who received one of Argentina's native sons, the internationally-acclaimed artist and portrait painter Fabian Perez this week with a stunning painting of his family.

During his visit, Perez took the opportunity to make a photoshoot of the president, material that he will use when arriving back at his studio in Los Angeles to create an official Portrait of the President.

The very next day, the presidential agenda published

As one of Argentina's most famous contemporary

60 | SUMMER 2017

“the only moment of relaxation for the president on a day so full of obligations was when he received the Argentine painter Fabian Perez with a gift that fascinated him: a painting Of Juliana Awada (his wife) his daughter Antonia and of him "

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Photo courtesy of Fabian Perez. Copyright © 2017. All rights reserved.

artists, the award-winning Perez has painted portraits of various famous individuals including the Argentinian Presidential Family's portrait. Perez has also completed a portrait of fellow Argentinian, Pope Francis, after being commissioned by the Vatican for his portrait. He's recently completed a commissioned portrait of the renowned spiritual leader, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar to whom he presented the portrait in Los Angeles.

Known for his ability to create stunning and intuitive figurative art, Fabian Perez's reputation has risen with dizzying pace. This June he received the 2017 ATIM Master Inspiration Award by the iconic ArtTour International Magazine. The award is presented to a professional master artist with more than twenty years of experience who's had consistent success and recognition throughout their art career. They must also have global recognition of their work to qualify for the award.

Perez also had received recognition from the prestigious Academy of Artists in Italy when he was named the Artist of the Year in 2014. Earlier in 2010, he was appointed as the official artist for both the Latin Grammy Awards and the Winter Olympics in Vancouver that same year. Perez's home country of www.arttourinternational.com

Photo courtesy of Fabian Perez. Copyright © 2017. All rights reserved.

SUMMER 2017 | 61

Fabian Perez and his wife Luciana and children with President of Argentina Mauricio Macri. Photo courtesy of Fabian Perez. Copyright © 2017. All rights reserved.

Argentina has also bestowed the rare honor of selecting him to create a government-funded public exhibition and mural.

The artist's most recent works, "Cinco Sentidos," a collection of limited editions and originals were received with acclaimed during a June 2017 gallery exhibition tour across England.

Perez's works are held by both art collectors and celebrities worldwide including boxing veteran and superstar Sugar Ray Leonard, basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal and soccer star Lionel Messi. His works have also been purchased by Hollywood stars such as Megan Fox and Mario Lopez, to name a few.

On the musical front, Gabriel Abora, President of the Latin Grammies, Shakira, Juan Gabriel, and Neil Portnow, President of the Grammy Awards.

Trained in classical methods, Fabian Perez works meticulously and engage in the narrative of each work.

Each piece has a dramatic or romantic character and tells its story. In his paintings, color, line, and light are orchestrated giving his figures a commanding physical presence.

Capturing the authentic nature of his subjects while also narrating their story is a central aspect of Perez' work, and the sense of movement, space, and texture unique of his paintings showcase his technical mastery.

“The Embrace II” - Acrylic On Canvas

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“Fabian Perez presents a portrait to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar” Sri Sri Ravi Shanka has been noted as a legend in India as a Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Perez’ proactive stance in honoring great leaders keeps his audience in awe and pleased with his delivery in talent as he did recently with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, allowing us all to feel the joy and determination of the great leader himself. The artist is very open about his Spirituality and appreciation for a universal knowledge. The experience is one that honors the humility within both individuals coming together through gratitude for each other.

“Sri Sri Ravi Shankar” Acrylic On Canvas

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SUMMER 2017 | 63

His work proposes not only an elegantly structured visual result but also the underlying emotions that play a huge part of his work thematically. It is a work that despite being heavily influenced by the artistic heritage of Impressionism, has managed to be detached and become a unique approach he has entitled "NeoEmotionalism."

With an excellent sense of composition and a bold use of line and color, Perez's paintings depict figures that often have a connection to the past, bringing back to the collective historical memory a society decades ago, which is familiar but still has many fundamental differences. In many ways, it is a reference to his turbulent childhood and teenage years, that were full of emotional moments and traumatic events.

Born in 1967 during politically turbulent days, he first became fascinated with drawing when he was about six or seven years old. These days the artist prefers acrylic to oil and can produce a painting in as little as one week but only after having committed no less than 15 to 20 hours depending on the work. He likes to use light in his works to create drama and looks to find the beauty in the world as well as his subjects. Perez is often recognized as one of the great artists of his generation, he'll often work on two paintings at a time but with equal passion and commitment to both. His passion and intuition for his craft are what have made Fabian Perez a highly collectible and highly acclaimed artist.

For more information about Fabian Perez, please visit his website www.fabianperez.com

64 | SUMMER 2017

“Surprise At Moonlight”

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Great Success For The Fifth Edition Of The ATIM Masters Award Ceremony

e Top 60 Masters of Contemporary Art Awarded In e Cradle Of e Renaissance!

by Yadira Roman

M

ay 27th 2017, In the theater of the Auditorium al Duomo, in Florence, Italy, sixty artists gathered for a spectacular event, the ATIM Masters Award Ceremony, the most highly anticipated event for ArtTour International Magazine, the world’s most representative magazine in the field of art.

Since their inception in 2012, The ATIM Masters Awards have cast a spotlight on the best visual artists in the international art scene.

The ceremony, which draws talented artists worldwide from different forms of art, has become a byword for achievement, class, and quality, the awards that every artist wants to win. www.arttourinternational.com

The highly successful event saw guests treated to a colorful ceremony, which started with music by Florentine cellist Ginevra Pruneti and pianist Francesca Mirarchi and featured the incredible voices of The Three Tenors, Neapolitan songs, and opera arias performance. The night concluded with the opening of a collective exhibition with works by the ATIM Top 60 Masters featured in the publication.

This year’s central theme was to promote peace through "Create 4 Peace" (www.create4peace.org), a program set up by ArtTour International Magazine to reduce the transgenerational transmission of pain and suffering, utilizing art to impact the imagination and creativity of people to transmit love, peace and personal responsibility.

Special moments during the evening took place when SUMMER 2017 | 65

“The Three Tenors” during their performance at the “ATIM Masters Award Ceremony 2017"

awarded artists shared their messages of peace. An emotional moment followed when Iraqi artist Fatima Al Obaidi expressed her positive desire for a peaceful world and share a beautiful meaning of the colors of her blue dress symbolizing peace. O Yemi Tubi from Nigeria shared his desire to raise awareness to the immigration crisis, and many other heartfelt messages by an amazing multi-cultural group of artists from over twenty five different countries t r a n s fo r m e d t h e t h e a t e r o f t h e Auditorium Al Duomo into a shrine for peace. The warm words from the founder of the event, Viviana Puello when she shared the inspiration behind the ceremony were the fuel that sparked the fire for the night. “Some of us feel the paint to see humankind in a state of turmoil. Nonetheless, the artists keep going, keep creating, keep inspiring, and they do it with the dedication of one that wants to give its best.” Puello said, “This year, we dedicate this ceremony to all artists and creators, especially those that carry the light to darker areas of our world, artists that are living in countries affected by war, hunger, and social apathy. We want to say, we are here, and feel your pain, but above everything, we are one and feel your love. Keep going, keep living, keep giving it all and keep opening your heart. Keep flying high. Stay inspired We will make everything possible to make your voices heard.”

This was, without a doubt, among the most inspiring ceremonies I have yet seen, the camaraderie among artists was the realization that peace is indeed possible and that at individual levels we all want a world in harmony for our future generations.

“Francesca Mirarchi”.

Francesca Mirarchi and Ginevra Pruneti enchanted with their performance.

Viviana Puello, ATIM Editor-in-Chief during a heartfelt message.

The theme for the night was “Create 4 Peace”

“ is year, we dedicate this ceremony to all artists and creators, especially those that carry the light to darker areas of our world, artists that are living in countries a ected by war, hunger, and social apathy. We want to say, we are here, and feel your pain, but above everything, we are one and feel your love. Keep going, keep living, keep giving it all and keep opening your heart. Keep flying high. Stay inspired We will make everything possible to make your voices heard.”

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Artist Mark Lenn Johnson from USA receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

Artist Sho Tsunoda from Japan receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

Photographer L. Ramachandran from India receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

Artist O. Yemi Tubi from Nigeria receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

Shifra Levyathan from Israel received the “Journey In Photography Award”

Elizabeth Brownrigg from Canada receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

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Artist Seppo Kari from Sweden receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

Mitch Barrett from England receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

Tony Svensson from Sweden selected among the “ATIM Top 20 Photographers Of The Year”

SUMMER 2017 | 67

Sónia Domingues from Portugal receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

From left to right: Viviana Puello, ATIM Editor-in-Chief with L Ramachandran from India, Yadira Roman, ATIM Managing Editor, artist Hema Takur from India and Rapeta Takur showcasing the Indian flag. The night was an international celebration for all participating artists.

A gathering of over twenty six nations took place at the “ATIM Masters Award Ceremony.” Above: Artists reunite for a group photo with the ArtTour International Team.

ArtTour International is an award-winning magazine that showcases visual, and performing artists and the ceremony which is the highlight of the award program, has become one of the most iconic platforms where esta-blished, and emerging artists gather to celebrate and raise awareness through their works.

The awarded artists were selected from among the sixty artists published in the annual catalog ATIM’s Top 60 Masters curated by Viviana Puello, internationally renowned personality in the art world, founder and Editorin-Chief of ArtTour International Magazine. The sixty selected artists for the publication receive a special career achievement certificate, and a pool of jury selects twentyfive artists among them to present them with the prestigious ATIM Masters Awards. Puello who is also an artist; created a unique award for her colleagues; A sculpture entitled “Flying High” that carries the appearance of an angel with open wings, made of porcelain and plated

68 | SUMMER 2017

Hema Thakur with ATIM Editor-in-Chief Viviana Puello in front a Rangoli created by the artist during the “ATIM Masters Award”

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Artist Susan McCollough From USA awarded “ATIM Artist Of The Year 2017"

Fatima Al Obaidi from Iraq was among the ATIM Masters Award winning artists

Artist Cornelia Steckhan from Belgium receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

Sónia Domingues from Portugal receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

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O. Yemi Tubi from Nigeria receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

Katrin Alvarez from Germany received the special recognition “Premio Alla Carriera” and the “Gold Masters Award”

Artist Anna Paola Gorozpe from Mexico receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

Artist Sveta Long from Russia receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

Artist Kate Taylor from Canada receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

Artist Carlos Aranha from Ecuador receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

Artist Roberta Grewcock from USA receiving the “ATIM Masters Award”

SUMMER 2017 | 69

Moments during the Conference for the event at Palazzo Coppini in Florence.

Artists during the Press Conference.

Interview to Artists during the Press Conference.

with 24Kt gold. The sculpture embodies all that ArtTour International Magazine represents.

Awards presented include the ATIM Masters Inspiration Award which goes once a year to a professional master artist who has had over twenty years of consistent career success and recognition.

The winner of the ATIM Master Inspiration Award is an artist who has reached a global level of recognition and now serves as a role model to give hope and inspiration to other artists. This year's ATIM Master Inspiration Award went to Fabian Perez, one of the most influential and critically acclaimed artists to have emerged from Argentina during the last decades.

"ATIM Masters Award" and "ATIM Artist Of The Year Award" presented to Susan McCollough, for her image “New York, New York,” an award-winning expressionist-abstract work featured on the cover of the publication. "ATIM Masters Award" and "Featured Photographer Of 2018" go to Riya Sharma (India), awarded for “Talking Eyes” a photography featured on the back cover of the publication.

A special career award “Premio Alla Carriera” was presented to Katrin Alvarez (Germany), considered one of the best contemporary surrealist artists.

The “ATIM Journey In Photography Award” was presented to Aldo Basili from Italy and Shifra Leviathan from Israel.

70 | SUMMER 2017

Viviana Puello, ATIM Editor-in-Chief and Paolo Del Bianco, President of Fondazione Romualdo Del Bianco during the Press Conference

For their significant contribution and devotion to promoting global peace through his works of art, ArtTour International Magazine and “Create 4 Peace” presented the title of “ATIM Messenger Of Peace” to Ed Moret, Stefan Duncan, Fatima Al Obaidi and O. Yemi Tubi.

The “ATIM Masters Awards” for 2017 were presented to artists Alejandro Carrillo (Mexico), Anna Paola Gorozpe Perezpria (Mexico), Banjerd Lekkong (Thailand), Carlos Aranha (Ecuador), Clare Page (New Zealand/Australia), Cornelia Steckhan (Romania), Donna Bonin (Canada), Ed Moret (USA), Edgar Francisko Jimenez (Colombia), Fatima Al Obaidi (Iran), Hema Thakur (India), Kate Taylor (Canada), Kay Griffith (USA), Jani Jan J (Sweden), L Ramachandran (India), Liana Gor-Goroian (USA), Lisa Levasseur (USA), Liz Brownrigg (Canada), Mark Lenn Johnson (USA), Mitch Barrett (England), O. Yemi Tubi (Nigeria), Roberta Grewcock (USA), Rosemarie Armstrong (Canada), Seppo Kari (Sweden), Sho Tsunoda (Japan), Sónia Domingues (Portugal), Sveta Long (Russia) and William Downey (Ireland).

Next year's event will be celebrated in New York at the Museum Of Arts and Design. Interested artists are invited to send their submissions for participation by visiting www.atimtop60masters.com

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Jeong-Ah Zhang “Getting In Touch”

by Thomas Lioutas

“A Quiet Meal" Acrylic On Canvas, 25"x35"

J

eong-Ah Zhang has created a fresh body of work based on the artistic heritage of modern art, while at the same time enriching and enhancing her compositions with her conceptual input. She is an artist who predominantly uses figurative art as her primary subject and carefully structure the complex world that she aims to. It is an approach that brings forward her unique technique, as she has an elegant hand bringing to life figures and objects, orchestrating a rich visual result.

Jeong-Ah frequently makes use of abstract elements such as patterns, an element that contrasts her primary figurative approach and further enhances its impact. This technical background based on the rich cultural heritage of the Surrealism movement, one of the most pivotal and influential movements of the 20th century. It is an approach though that remains relevant to contemporary artistic production, as it externalizes the fundamental concerns, notions, and concepts that Jeong-Ah Zhang wants to propose to the public.

All these elements can be seen in her most recent body of work, “River of the Plan,” produced in 2017. The viewer confronts a dream-like landscape, one that combines a grassy plain with a river which is painted in a way to be reminiscent of the sky, while the subtle addition of a fish further enhances the visual riddle presented. This landscape also includes a nude male figure holding an umbrella, a figure that presents an overall balanced artwork.

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“Source Of Anxiety" Acrylic On Canvas, 46"x32"

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“River Of The Plan" Acrylic On Canvas, 21"x29"

“Equal Gaze" Acrylic On Canvas, 39"x29"

The artistic style of Jeong-Ah is one that steps the viewer into complex visual labyrinths that demand a careful examination to unravel and manifest their full conceptual background. Thus, despite being initially a personal artistic expression based on the subconscious imagination of the painter is gradually transformed in artworks that demand an active approach from the public to decode and understand them. It is a process which lies at the heart of the contemporary artistic production, as 72 | SUMMER 2017

“Phenomenon Of Repetition" Acrylic On Canvas, 29"x21"

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“A Voyager" Acrylic On Canvas, 29"x39"

“Reflection”

“Alaya" Acrylic On Canvas, 16"x21"

“Eternal Moment" Acrylic On Canvas, 36"x25"

the viewer is seen as an integral part of the final artistic result, thus creating a fruitful and fascinating dialogue.

http://blog.naver.com/j_zenair “A Layer - Phenomenal World" Acrylic On Canvas, 21"x28"

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www.facebook.com/ArtistJeongahZhang SUMMER 2017 | 73

“New York, New York“ Oil On Canvas 60”x40”

ATIM Artist Of The Year Award-Winning Susan McCollough takes center stage as “New York, New York” gets chosen for the front cover of the award-winning publication “ATIM’s Top 60 Masters” by ArtTour International Magazine.

by Viviana Puello

T

he magnificent work on the cover of “ATIM’s Top 60 Masters”, (ArtTour International magazine’s award-winning special annual publication), is what we consider the representation of contemporary expressionistic art with a unique and personal approach by the hands of master artist Susan McCollough. It doesn’t take long for the viewer to be captivated by McCollough’s color-filled compositions that give the impression of three-dimensional works for their rich texture and unexpected changes of directions. The audience is drawn by a visual symphony to uncover deeper meanings “between the lines” and forms of her vibrant paintings.

Using color as a natural communicator in her pieces 74 | SUMMER 2017

and the emphasized symbol of expression, Susan McCollough brings forth an exciting journey to her audience with imagery filled with freedom of movement and spontaneity. With a carefully orchestrated use of color, McCollough creates her paintings on over-sized canvases with the use of acrylic, oil and mixed media, allowing her pallet spread across the canvas, bursting with energy and fluidity. She accomplishes this by keeping her palette to two or three saturated tones, contrasted with areas of solid, deep black and primary colors in the background. She explores color, line, texture, and patterns with a powerful ability, and creates juxtapositions for maximum impact. Her abstract works may be interpreted as depictions of human www.arttourinternational.com

“Divergence” Oil On Canvas 50”x40”

figures, cityscapes, or imaginary objects that create a very engaging narrative.

The consistency of her bold color use carries into each creation, however, the essence and play with texture changes each time, showcasing the emotional investment of her art. Both abstract and linear forms take place in exhibiting the world she portrays.

Her fondness of life and its conceptual complexities is what gives her audience the intimate experience of seeing her works as she openly expresses the joy in living possibility within each stroke.

Originally from the Bronx, New York, Sussan McCollough lived in Dothan, Alabama from the age of six until she graduated from high school. She received a bachelor of science degree in speech and art from the University of Alabama and continued study with accomplished artists, including Professor Gary Sussman at the Art Students League of New York, Vytlacil Campus, for sculpture and Sonia De Franceschi at the Accademia D’Arte in Florence. She has produced close to 600 paintings and exhibited in over ten solo exhibitions. Her works are held in gallery collections in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Texas, and New York.

McCollough has served on the Arts Committee of the United States Sports Academy for over ten years and is now artist Cont. Next Page

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“The Guardian” Oil On Canvas, 45”x63”

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“Melting Into Spring” Oil On Canvas, 48”x60”

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“Heart Of The Matter“ Oil On Canvas 36”x36”

Emeritus and serves on the Board of Trustees.

She is also a member of the Women’s Art World organization. McCollough owns a gallery in Gulf Shores, Alabama, where she also has a studio where she creates most of her works.

During her creative process, the artist envisions her paintings and designs; once she is convinced of which direction to go, she is ready to place the first brush stroke and let her creativity flow.

“Before I paint a new canvas, many times, I will envision painting it as I fall asleep and I work it out in my head until I know the direction I will take the next morning. Sometimes I do not wait until the next morning. I find it all a labor of love, fun and exciting with every brush stroke I take ."

“Her Earthly Vision”, Oil On Canvas, 5"x4"

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“Illusionary Journey“ Oil On Canvas 4’x7’

“Over The Rainbow” Oil On Canvas, 48”x72”

Freedom of expression and spontaneity are some of the highlights of McCollough’s works. She goes beyond boundaries, infusing her works with unique visual energy, creating art of aesthetic appeal and profound emotion while inviting the viewer to an intimate dialog.

McCollough has shown her works internationally and received numerous awards. She is highly collected and has been since the early stages of her career. She has sold almost every painting she has created throughout the years, a large part of it created by commission. Her new creations are rapidly acquired and highly anticipated. The artist has a passionate devotion to her work and creates from the point of genuine, pure inspiration. We congratulate Susan McCollough and thank her for the creation of “New York, New York” featured on the cover of the ATIM’s Top 60 Masters 2017”, Susan McCollough ha been presented with the “Artist Of The Year Award” by ArtTour International Magazine in 2017. She has also received the ATIM Masters Award for her work “Between The Lines” during a ceremony held in Florence, Italy on May 27th, 2017.

www.susannmccolloughart.media Susan McCollough, Artist Of The Year On The ATIM Masters Awards 2017

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Your window to the world of art!

Are you an artist interested in participating in an "Art 2 Heart" interview? Feel free to contact Art 2 Heart at info@arttourinternational.com and share your story of inspiration.

Visit the Art 2 Heart Channel at

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Brian Rock

“A Healing Journey

by Viviana Puello

rough

e Arts”

“Series 2" Mixed Media On Canvas, 48"x24"

B

rian Rock's work represents an exploration into art as a source to cope with trauma from past events an interpretation of the artist's war with painful memories and the expression of a renewed consciousness. Rock's paintings and sculptures mirror his personal experiences, passion and aesthetic.

Being born and raised in Belfast, Northern Ireland, his years as a young man were affected by the known violent events that marked the community of the country, due to the great social unrest that engulfed the area. These events became the fuel of his artistic journey and led him to create works of art to portray the experiences that shaped him as a person and an artist.

In his works, Brian Rock makes use of bold chromatic or tonal contrasts, an element that fits his intense past experiences and successfully blends with the concepts behind the artworks.

Rock has developed a unique style of hand mixing his mediums directly onto the canvas, a feature that has served the artists as a healing outlet by presenting a physical manifestation of memory in a revived creative way, no longer controlled by emotion but guided by a higher source of inspiration. In his work, the artist invites 80 | SUMMER 2017

“Series 1" Mixed Media On Canvas, 24"x18"

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“Series 4" Mixed Media On Canvas, 18"x12"

“Series 3" Mixed Media On Canvas, 48"x24"

the audience to a healing journey through the discovery of new dimensions of existence by choosing creativity and the joy of the present moment over the burden of staying tied to a painful past.

Rock chooses to incorporate in his work the remnants of war, dirt, glass, ash, wire, nails, bullet casings, shrapnel, and creates masterful compositions that blend old elements with new concepts of expression and artistic techniques. He makes use of energetic splashes, drippings and tense forms, a visual characteristic that enhances the intensity of the image and creates a very emotional result.

His artworks that have a more figurative approach tend to portray contorted faces which act as a symbol of the violence that he has experienced, while at the same time he might also make use of a sculptural element, like a human torso juxtaposed on the rich chromatic background. This sculptural chapter of his artistic expression is further enhanced by the addition of fabrics on his canvases, a fascinating technical element as it can be both abstract in nature by creating patterns, while at the same time having a connection with people and the clothing which is associated with them. Thus, the entirety of his body of work has a very cohesive aesthetic and conceptual result, as despite the numerous different elements used, he weaves them all together in an elegant artistic expression.

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“Series 8" Mixed Media On Canvas, 12"x12"

www.brianrockart.vpweb.com

SUMMER 2017 | 81

Frans Frengen

“Painting With

e Light Of A Candle”

by Cathy Crocco

“Father Abraham, Henri From Albi And The Albatross” Fumagine (Paint With A Flame), Acrylic Dots And Movable Square - 28”x28” - 2016

O

ne of the unique contemporary artists to emerge on the scene, Belgian artist Frans Frengen has developed a work process that is as intriguing as the artwork he creates. Frans Frengen began drawing as a young boy, and his talent as an artist was quickly recognized.

He studied painting and drawing under prominent artists for some years before developing the signature "Fumagine" technique that forms the basis for much of his work.

While in Wemmel, near Brussels, Frengen conceived and developed the fumagine technique, which is best 82 | SUMMER 2017

described as the equivalent of painting with a candle.

More than just painting with soot, this method gives a distinctive, stylized look to Frans Frengen's paintings and drawings. It gives his primarily black and white compositions a mere appearance, emphasized by the great shading that is created by the fumagine technique.

Despite the bold, thick lines, smudgy appearance, and simple nature of Frengen's drawings and paintings, they are still highly detailed and reveal the artist's deep level of skill and technique. In addition to www.arttourinternational.com

“A Living Drone And A Wild Rabbit, A Human Right” Fumagine (Paint With A Flame) And Acrylic Dots - 28”x28” - 2016

the simple shades of gray smudging created by the fumagine technique, Frengen also adds bold spots of color to the paintings. The primary colors of red, blue, and yellow are often featured in his work. It is clear that this is the work of a talented artist who has spent many years studying technique and artistic styles. Most of his art features people and scenes from everyday life portrayed in a unique way and with a great perspective.

Several of Frans Frengen's fumagine paintings stand out from the rest. One, "Hunting a Human Right," features a musket-bearing Cont. Next Page

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“Noah's Ark, The Return”- Fumagine (Paint With A Flame) , Acrylic Dots And Movable Square - 28”x28” - 2016

SUMMER 2017 | 83

Award winning artist Frans Frengen in his studio. The creative process with the fumagine technique requires the use of a candle; the method requires a high level of skill to attain the quality of work presented by Frengen which shows his many years of experience.

Photo courtesy Frans Frengen. Copyright Š 2017 All rights reserved.

hunter and his dogs chasing a wild boar. This simple drawing, painted by Frengen with a candle, is not only remarkable because of the striking details and intense expressions on the faces, but because of his choice to use a single spot of red paint as the only color in this mostly monochromatic painting.

Another piece to note is "Mirror on Newport," which features two ships in a beautiful harbor. While the artwork is mostly black and white, a few splotches of purple and green acrylic paint are strategically placed in the water.

The ships are delineated with high precision, and the small numbers on the bows of the ships add an extra dimension and detail to these works of art. The bright colors of the acrylic paint contrast eectively with the calm and serene waters.

Frans Frengen's unique fumagine technique showcases his brilliant yet simple paintings and drawings.

It is clear that this Belgian artist has remarkable talent and skill, as well as a clear voice that has something important to say.

www.allart-frengen.be

84 | SUMMER 2017

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Ginevra Pruneti “Honoring

by Thomas Lioutas

e Flow”

D

uring the most recent ATIM Masters Award Ceremony celebrated at the Auditorium al Duomo in Florence, the public was enchanted by the soothing and magical sound of the Italian virtuoso Violoncello by Ginevra Pruneti accompanied by pianist Francesca Mirarchi. The Violoncello is a musical instrument which has been a staple of the European music culture since the 18th century and still plays a significant role in many bands and orchestras, as it is an instrument with a low pitch which is crucial for the creation of the atmospheric background of the musical piece.

Pruneti delighted the audience with her repertoire, and we received emails requesting information about this young artist. ArtTour International is happy to bring you the artist behind the violoncello and expose her to the international audience.

Ginevra Pruneti is a diverse artist who uses the Cello as the instrument which becomes the primary medium of her artistic expression. She is also a composer who has a great repertoire of her own. Pruneti has invested her time in learning this complex instrument to reach a commendable artistic status and use it to convey her rich emotional ideas to the public and compose or recreate music which is in-depth and meaningful.

Original from Florence, Italy, historically one of the most significant cities in the country and one which has a rich tradition in artistic creation. In essence, one can see in her work the reflection of countless generations of musicians who contributed to the creation of the Classical, Neoclassical and modern music that we experience today, small steps that led us to our current state of artistic status. Her bold and reliable execution is the reason behind her success and numerous participations in events as a session musician who always performs reliably.

This rising status and her young age ensure that she will have an even brighter future as a musician, exploring even further the rich world of culture through her instrument and above all her musical ideas.

If you would like to enjoy more of Pruneti's performance, you can catch her this summer at Compagnia Teatri D'Imbargo in Florence as one of the stars performing "Il Volo Di Michelangelo."

More info @GinevraPruneti.

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Photography Marco Zanotti © 2017 ArtTour International Magazine. All rights reserved.

Photography Marco Zanotti © 2017 ArtTour International Magazine. All rights reserved.

“Create 4 Peace” is a program created by ArtTour International Magazine to reduce the transgenerational transmission of pain and suffering, utilizing art to impact the imagination and creativity of people to transmit love, peace, and personal responsibility.

ArtTour International wants to celebrate the freedom of self-expression.

T

he Oxford dictionary describes art as "the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.”

We want to present a platform to give a voice for artists to exercise their emotional power and make a positive impact in society. It is through platforms like this one that artists will take advantage of their time in the limelight to shine and take part in movements that are affluent and influential to society.

The most recent uproar witnessed in the US, where Hollywood artists came together to preach their stand against the new administration demonstrated that artists' activism campaigns could go a long way into shaping modern society.

86 | SUMMER 2017

Artists are unifying their efforts in promoting human and animal rights, environmental conservation and world peace. "Create 4 Peace" is standing as a conduit for international artists to express their social concerns and take action as a beacon of light for our world. The courage and vulnerability to voice their truth through art are worth supporting, and our community here in ArtTour International is openly creating such a platform to do so.

2017 Messengers Of Peace For their great contribution and devotion to promoting global peace through his works of art, ArtTour International Magazine is very honored to present the title of “ATIM Messenger Of Peace” to artists: Stefan Duncan, Ed Moret, Fatima Al Obaidi, O. Yemi Tubi.

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"I received a message from Stefan where he shared his idea on inviting artists around the world to admire a sunset on a specific day and shot a photo of it and then share it. I thought the idea was wonderful and worth putting into works, that's how "ATIM Sunset For Peace" was born. Our aim is to inspire and bring awareness and ultimately as cliché as it usually sounds, encourage word peace, we really need it, I personally would like to think of a more peaceful world for the next generations.”

Viviana Puello

ATIM Editor-in-Chief

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The program is very simple, on September 18th 2017 we will celebrate that day. We are inviting artists around the world to tune in to nature and capture their sunsets. We will have an open digital gallery where all images will be displayed and a video production with all images and artists messages will be released for the anniversary issue of ArtTour International Magazine as a celebration of the first year of the "Create 4 Peace" program.

If you are an artist interested in participating email info@create4peace.com for more information

www.create4peace.org

SUMMER 2017 | 87

“

Edward J. Morét

e Art Of Awareness”

by Viviana Puello

“Bengal’s Inner Peace” Acrylic On Canvas, 30”x40”

"I know that within the depths of my soul the light of creativity prevails and orchestrates a symphony to the rhythm of our hearts."

- Edward J. Morét

E

dward J. Morét's brightly colored and vibrant paintings combine realistic depictions with dream-like scenes centered on environmental issues like global warming and endangered species inspired by his love for ocean and nature. He has accomplished a highly acclaimed artistic career for more than forty years, with an impressive portfolio that poses extreme interest to the viewer.

Morét creates photorealistic imagery with close attention to detail and a masterful use of color. His surrealistic compositions depict animals, plants, and landscapes in a contemporary context as he includes topics that refer to our modern society. One can see references to global warming, pollution and the human-driven destruction of animal habitats, issues that are relevant to the global ecological crisis.

A world traveler, Morét has experienced firsthand the 88 | SUMMER 2017

effects of climate change witnessing melting glaciers and deforestation during his trips to Peru, Iceland, India, Nepal and the Amazon jungle. This experience has inspired the artist to bring awareness about the direct impact of global warming on our civilization.

This theme is presented carefully in awe-inspiring paintings that incorporate different elements demonstrating the artist compositional skills combined with an in-depth knowledge of color use and techniques that originate from the old masters.

The viewer is arguably mesmerized by his paintings, as they offer a vantage point to a new reality, one that has ties to our world but has an immensely higher spiritual and conceptual level. Morét creates an inviting space for his audience to connect, and commit to his pieces period. These artworks provoke interaction and deliver their message successfully establishing a dialog about our present as a community as well as our (potential) future.

www.edmoret.com www.arttourinternational.com

“Serene Expression”

by Viviana Puello

F

atima Al Obaidi is a bold artistic presence in the world of contemporary art, producing artworks of high artistic value that pose significant interest both thematically and technically.

“Hovering To The Sky" Acrylic On Canvas, 23"X31"

Al Obaidi born Iraq, a country that has suffered immensely due to constant wars in the last decades, manages through her art to instill hope and promote a message of peace, the most essential of all human values. It is a theme she explores with the use of beautiful, vibrant colors that are structuring abstract patterns and drawings, unique compositions that have their roots in the local artistic culture which has a rich history of design patterns. Al Obaidi takes this influence and freely transforms to contemporize it and introduce it in her personal context that has a liberating approach. It is a work that focuses on spirituality and sense of calmness, elements that soothe the soul of the viewer and invite one into a journey through raw color and free forms that evoke tranquility. Al Obaidi aims to inspire peace through her work, a kind of peace which is not based on direct anti-war messages but by positively influencing and inspiring the audience and for these reasons she awarded a title of " Ambassador Of Peace Through Art ", in 21st , International Fine Art Festival, in Slovakia, 2014.

Al Obaidi's carefully structured imagery delivers chromatic dances, having an immense sense of movement and fluidity, always retaining the freedom which is essential to Abstraction. A prime example of her work can be seen in the “Carnival Cumbia" Acrylic On Canvas, 36"x30" painting "Light Of Hope," where a masterfully orchestrated abstract design is placed in the center that swirls and oscillates due to its compositional complexity. It is situated on a multicolored background that acts as a balancing agent and offers stability and robustness to the artwork. It is through this unique and ingenious work that Al Obaidi is recognized internationally, having exhibited in many countries of the Middle East and Europe and being awarded numerous prizes throughout her career.

“Light Of Hope" Acrylic On Canvas, 28"X20"

www.arttourinternational.com

www.fatimaalobaidi.com SUMMER 2017 | 89

O. Yemi Tubi

“Painting From His Roots”

by Yadira Roman

“Fishers Of Men'' Oil On Canvas, 54''x33''

R

ooted in the lands of Nigeria, O. Yemi Tubi has established himself as a prominent Graphic Designer and painter that incorporates political and social messages in a skillful artistic realization. His extensive career started in the early 1980s in the U.S. growing into his artistry now to the United Kingdom where he works as a Graphic Designer and continues to create compelling works of art that have a profound connection to his roots in Africa.

Tubi works are diverse and exhibit a high degree of knowledge regarding mediums and techniques, as one can see both historical and modern influences in his work. It is evident that he has studied in depth the painting and drawing style of old masters, inspired by painters like Delacroix and Goya. O. Yemi Tubi exhibits a complexity that delivers unique artworks which can leave quite the impression on the viewer. This emotion is enhanced by the thematic approach of Tubi, as he has a bold political context, showcasing through his work many of the contemporary events of the war as well as the social inequalities in his home continent, Africa. It is a topic which can motivate emotions and establish a dialogue with his audience.

90 | SUMMER 2017

O. Yemi Working On His Painting - Oil: “Africans Wealth And Woe”

O. Yemi Tubi is in large part a significant contribution to contemporary art. Works of art that carry a powerful and robust presence a feature well respected and needed in the context of the modern society. In essence, it is a body of work that promotes and unearths all these topics that many might avoid to look at, but are imperative regarding the formation of a healthier and much more peaceful society.

www.vividartsnetwork.com/oyemitubi

www.arttourinternational.com

“

Stefan Duncan

rough

e Eyes Of A Visionary”

by Viviana Puello

S

tephan Duncan has dedicated and committed his life to his global vision as a beacon of light for all that come across his works.

Duncan came up with the impressionistic styles of Squiggelism known as a new branch of Neo-Gogh and impressionism. Each squiggle represents a unit of the divine that exist in all that is. The unblended strokes are applied beside each other with the intention to highlight its effect and cause stimulation to the mental psyche. His compositions are bold, and his choice of color is selected carefully with intention.

His depictions of nature are gentle, and soothing in their everlasting fluidity, yet there is a grounding and strong presence in the subjects that surround it. A spiritual guide who leads with his art and compassion in the world.

Duncan has a mission to bring more light to people through his paintings and thus hope to humankind. Expressing gratitude his realization to be an artist while conversing with God. Duncan feels that we never feel the earth under our feet because of the concrete nor see the stars because of the light in the streets. He desires to bring wonder and the sense of awe that exist in the world as a whole. His paintings are created with the intention to illuminate the world of his audience experiences on an individual level. He states that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimpse of light to give people hope and encouragement. Duncan's paintings are collected throughout Canada, US, and Europe. He paints an average of 12 hours a d ay m a i nt a i n i n g h i s wo rd a n d commitment to the path and purpose he feels strongly for.

“Raven's World'' Acrylic On Canvas 36''x72''x2''

“My Sacred Place'' Acrylic On Canvas 36''x36''x2''

www.stefanduncan.com

“AlI In The Woven'' Prismacolor Pencils On Wood Panel 24"x36"x1"

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SUMMER 2017 | 91

ArtTour International Magazine is proud to present a highly-anticipated and ground-breaking publication, testament to our dedication and involvement with some of the most talented and inspiring artists operating in the world today: the ATIM'S Top 60™ Masters of Contemporary Art! Featuring 60 incredible artists, this publication offers readers inspiration from the best of the best in the contemporary art world. Curated by the internationally acclaimed art personality Viviana Puello, Editorin-Chief of ArtTour International Magazine, the publication spotlights top talent from a broad range of artistic forms. Over the years many internationally renowned artists have been showcased in the pages of this state-of-the-art publication, including Susan McCollough, Riya Sharma, Hélène DeSerres, Sveta Kanyo, Mark Lenn Johnson, Sveta Long, Clare Page, Stefan Duncan, among many others.

This award-winning publication has reached over 1.3 million readers, and there have been over 200,000 views of the video production that accompanies the multi-media platform and digital publication.

www.atimtop60masters.com Copyright © 2017 ArtTour International Publications Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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