My work seeks to explore the nuanced layers of the human experience through the lens of surrealism. I am Joseph Renda Jr., and my paintings are portals into a world where the boundaries of reality and imagination converge, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of introspection and wonder.
In my dreamscapes, tiny figures meander through vast landscapes, dwarfed by towering objects and mesmerizing skies. Through the surreal interplay of scale and symbolism, I strive to create a shared experience—one that transcends the confines of the canvas and sparks a dialogue between the viewer and the work. It is my hope that my paintings offer a momentary escape, a space where the mind can wander freely and the spirit can find solace in the beauty and complexity of the world.
Nature, as a recurring motif, serves as both a backdrop and a narrative device in my work. It is through this lens that I explore themes of escapism and introspection, encouraging viewers to step beyond the confines of their immediate reality and delve into a world where the boundaries between the tangible and the ethereal blur.
Ultimately, my work is a celebration of the surreal aspects of life that often go unnoticed; it is an invitation to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the innocence and wonder that resides within us all. Through my art, I seek to inspire a renewed appreciation for the delicate balance and profound interconnectedness of all things.
Renda earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts specializing in oil painting from the American Academy of Art. He is represented by Chicago’s Vertical Gallery, and Europe’s Galerie One. He has curated and shown in numerous group exhibitions both national and internationally, created public murals, and has had his work published in various magazines and blogs.