MARIO BALSAMO │ EXPLORING THE SYMBOLIC POTENTIAL OF THE HUMAN FIGURE

“My work investigates the threshold between reality and dream. I use figurative oil painting to explore internal landscapes that feel both intimate and uncanny. Drawing from the visual language of surrealism, I construct symbolic narratives that blur the line between the physical body and the unconscious mind.”
– Mario Balsamo

Mario Balsamo is an Italian figurative oil painter whose work navigates the psychological terrain between reality and dream. With a foundation in classical painting techniques, Balsamo draws on surrealist strategies to explore memory, identity, and perception themes. Based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, he has exhibited work in solo and group exhibitions across Europe and Asia. His paintings have been featured in contemporary art publications and are held in private collections internationally.

MARIO BALSAMO

Mario Balsamo, a fascinating artist with roots in Milan, spent his formative years immersed in creativity. After dedicating himself to the study of Fine Arts and Graphic Design, he sought to deepen his artistic style by moving to the enchanting city of Rome, where he had the privilege of apprenticing under the esteemed master painter Stefano di Stasio. In this vibrant artistic milieu, Balsamo began to exhibit his work, garnering both recognition and prestigious awards for his unique approach to art.

In 2004, drawn by the allure of tropical landscapes and a desire to share his passion for art, Balsamo relocated to the idyllic island of Bali. There, he not only taught aspiring artists but also sold his creations on an international scale, weaving contemporary techniques with rich traditional knowledge. His artwork eloquently expresses the intricacies of human experiences and relationships, inviting viewers to dialogue with his pieces.

Two years later, in 2006, Balsamo embarked on a new chapter of his journey in Malaysia, where he continued to teach and inspire others through workshops in the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur. Fast forward to 2023, and he established his own studio in this cultural melting pot. This new space is a hub for artistic exploration, offering professional art classes and fine art commissions tailored to a diverse clientele. The studio is not merely a place for creation; it also hosts dynamic art events that celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of Kuala Lumpur, further enriching the local arts scene.

“Trained in classical techniques, I approach painting as a layered, meditative process that mirrors the psychological complexity of memory, identity, and illusion. I’m especially interested in how familiar forms, faces, hands, and elements of nature can be subtly transformed into something disquieting, prompting viewers to reconsider their own perceptions.  Ultimately, my practice is rooted in ambiguity and emotional resonance.
I am less concerned with resolution than creating a space for stillness, introspection,  and the quiet tension of the unspoken. “
-Mario Balsamo

Mario Balsamo, a fascinating artist with roots in Milan, spent his formative years immersed in creativity. After dedicating himself to the study of Fine Arts and Graphic Design, he sought to deepen his artistic style by moving to the enchanting city of Rome, where he had the privilege of apprenticing under the esteemed master painter Stefano di Stasio. In this vibrant artistic milieu, Balsamo began to exhibit his work, garnering both recognition and prestigious awards for his unique approach to art.

In 2004, drawn by the allure of tropical landscapes and a desire to share his passion for art, Balsamo relocated to the idyllic island of Bali. There, he not only taught aspiring artists but also sold his creations on an international scale, weaving contemporary techniques with rich traditional knowledge. His artwork eloquently expresses the intricacies of human experiences and relationships, inviting viewers to dialogue with his pieces.

Two years later, in 2006, Balsamo embarked on a new chapter of his journey in Malaysia, where he continued to teach and inspire others through workshops in the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur. Fast forward to 2023, and he established his own studio in this cultural melting pot. This new space is a hub for artistic exploration, offering professional art classes and fine art commissions tailored to a diverse clientele. The studio is not merely a place for creation; it also hosts dynamic art events that celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of Kuala Lumpur, further enriching the local arts scene.

Balsamo’s current series immerses itself in the rich tapestry of symbolism found in both the human figure and the natural landscape, reimagining these elements within tranquil yet frequently psychologically layered environments. Drawing from the atmospheric tension present in the works of masters like Balthus and Antonio Mancini, as well as contemporary painters adept at dancing along the fine line between realism and the surreal, he expertly weaves visual narratives that elude simple interpretation.

“I’m especially interested in how familiar forms, faces, hands, and elements of nature can be subtly transformed into something disquieting, prompting viewers to reconsider their own perceptions.”
– Mario Balsamo

Each painting captures a transient moment that resonates with both familiarity and wonder, crafting a space where emotional truths gradually emerge through a shroud of ambiguity.
The interplay of light and shadow, intricately layered with subtle details, beckons viewers to pause and engage with the multifaceted nature of the scenes portrayed. This immersive experience allows for a profound and contemplative exploration of the complexities inherent in the human experience, inviting the audience to delve deeper into the thoughts and feelings that lie beneath the surface.

See the full article in Art Market Magazine Edition #104