Davide Balliano

Davide Balliano’s (b. 1983) research operates on the thin line of demarcation between painting and sculpture. Utilizing an austere, minimal language of abstract geometries in strong dialogue with architecture, his work investigates existential themes such as the identity of man in the age of technology and his relationship with the sublime.

Through a practice that is self-described as monastic, austere and concrete, Balliano’s meticulous paintings appear, upon first glance, clean and precise. However, closer inspection reveals scrapes and scratches that uncover the organic wooden surface underneath the layers of paint, as a decaying façade of abandoned modernistic intentions.

In addition to painting, Davide Balliano is also known for his sculptural work, which translates the visual vocabulary found in his paintings into solid objects, often in ceramic, wood or stone. Originally trained in photography, Balliano shifted to painting and sculpture in 2006 while relocating to New York City, where he currently resides and works.

Recent solo exhibitions include a presentation at Museo MARCA, Catanzaro (2018), Bottega Veneta Maison, New York (2018), 39 Great Jones, New York (2018), Tina Kim Gallery, New York (2017), Luce Gallery, Turin (2017 & 2015), Timothy Taylor Gallery, London (2015), Room East, New York (2014), Rolando Anselmi Galerie, Berlin (2014 and 2012), Galerie Michael Rein, Paris (2013), Location One, New York (2011), Artists Space, New York (2009).

His work has been included in numerous group exhibitions, including David Zwirner Gallery, New York (2015), Sean Kelly Gallery, New York (2014 and 2010), Madre Museum, Naples, Italy (2012), The Watermill Center, New York (2011 and 2009), MoMA PS1, New York (2010), Espace d’Art Contemporain de Castello, Castellon, Spain (2010).