Anthony Viti

Anthony Viti: Exploring Grief Through Monochrome Crosses

Anthony Viti (born Rochester, United States of America, 1961) is an American artist currently residing in Brooklyn, New York, where he pursues a dual vocation as visual artist and art educator. He teaches at School of Visual Arts and Parsons, shaping the next generation of creatives while simultaneously engaging in his own prolific artistic practice—a dedication that has earned him recognition from influential institutions like The Pollock-Krasner Foundation and Elizabeth Foundation for the Arts—solidifying his place within the vibrant tapestry of contemporary art. His artistic journey began with a profound engagement with challenging subjects, mirroring the stylistic approach of artists such as Marlene Dumas and Sigmar Polke, whose work similarly interrogates representation and delves into psychological complexities. Viti’s distinctive visual language draws heavily from Romanticism, prioritizing textural brushwork and emotive color palettes alongside deliberate explorations of monochrome hues. This stylistic preference is particularly striking in his series of paintings titled “Elegy,” a direct response to Marlene Dumas’s iconic artwork "Iron Cross." The artist ingeniously transforms the symbol of Christian faith—a traditionally comforting image—into an emblem of sorrow and remembrance, prompting viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about grief and loss. This conceptual reimagining exemplifies Viti's characteristic blend of confrontation and spirited optimism; he refuses to shy away from disrupting established conventions or fostering contemplation regarding societal anxieties. The execution of “Elegy” is characterized by meticulous attention to detail—specifically the application of textured paint using palette knives—creating palpable surfaces that convey a sense of vulnerability and immediacy. These surfaces mirror Viti’s overarching preoccupation with themes of mourning, mirroring his artistic sensibilities in other mediums. His sculptural works often incorporate reclaimed materials, reflecting similar textural concerns as his paintings and demonstrating a commitment to repurposing discarded objects into powerful statements about materiality and process. His exhibitions have traversed continents, showcasing his singular vision at venues ranging from Art During the Occupation Gallery in Brooklyn to Hudson D. Walker Gallery in Provincetown, MA; deven golden fine art in New York, NY; tibor de nagy gallery in New York, NY; leslie-lohman museum of gay and lesbian art; Cobra Museum in Amsterdam; SCA Contemporary Art in Albuquerque; sue scott gallery in New York, NY; kinkead contemporary in Culver City, CA; david krut projects in New York, NY. Notably, his inclusion in The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection underscores the enduring resonance of his artistic explorations into human experience and psychological introspection—a testament to Viti's ability to transform personal reflection into universally accessible visual narratives. Furthermore, Anthony Viti’s influence extends beyond his own creations; he serves as an inspiring mentor at School of Visual Arts and Parsons, nurturing the creative potential of aspiring artists and fostering a dialogue about artistic innovation. His commitment to educating future generations ensures that his distinctive aesthetic—rooted in Romanticism and informed by explorations of HIV/AIDS—continues to shape the landscape of contemporary art for years to come.