Malaika Oil Portrait
ZITO

Malaika Oil Portrait

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Immerse yourself in the captivating charm of Malaika Oil Portrait - a breathtaking depiction of the vibrant personalities of New York's Lower East Side. Created by the talented Zito, this remarkable found object is a true reflection of the spirit and essence of the community. Don't miss out on this unique and inspiring piece after 30 years of dedication from the artist.

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About the Artist

Antony Zito's

Work as an artist encapsulates a vivid and dynamic journey through the cultural and social landscape of New York City's Lower East Side, as well as extending his artistic expressions into North Central Connecticut. His 30-year tenure in the area is not just a testament to his dedication but also to his profound connection with the locality and its inhabitants. Through his gallery and portrait studio on Ludlow Street, which he ran until 2006, Zito has become a visual historian of sorts, capturing the essence of the local characters and the evolving art scene from the 90s through the 2000s to the present.

Zito's artistry is notably diverse, transcending traditional mediums and supports. His choice of canvases—ranging from objects found on the streets of the Lower East Side to the highest quality academic materials—demonstrates his innovative approach to art. This versatility allows him to create in various mediums including oil, acrylic, enamel, and watercolor, and even extend his creativity to unconventional supports like coffee cups. Zito's work is a celebration of resourcefulness and creativity, embodying the spirit of the found object as an art form.

His portraits have been described as "sensual" by the New York Post, highlighting the emotive power and intimate connection his works establish with the viewer. The Village Voice's recognition of him as "a master of the found object" underscores his unique ability to transform everyday items into profound artistic expressions. This transformation not only challenges perceptions of what constitutes art but also reflects a deeper commentary on the consumerist society and the potential for rebirth and beauty in discarded objects.

Beyond portraits, Zito's repertoire includes murals, live painting, and lettering, showcasing his versatility and commitment to artistic exploration. His work, therefore, stands as a multifaceted exploration of identity, community, and the environment, offering a rich tapestry of visual narratives that capture the essence of human experience and the vibrancy of urban life. Antony Zito's contributions to the art world extend beyond his individual creations; they enrich the cultural fabric of the communities he depicts, preserving moments of urban life and humanity in the transient landscape of the city.

The Critics Are Loving Zito

★★★★★

Antony Zito transforms the mundane into the magnificent, redefining urban waste as canvas for his sensual and poignant portraits of Lower East Side life.

★★★★★

Zito's alchemic touch breathes life into discarded objects, crafting deeply human portraits that invite us to see beauty in the overlooked.

★★★★★

A cornerstone of the East Village art scene, Zito's intimate works capture the essence of community and the transformative power of art.

★★★★★

Zito challenges contemporary art norms by infusing the tangible with timelessness, using urban detritus to explore identity and presence.

Author's name
Los Angeles, CA
★★★★★

Bridging street grit with fine art, Zito's portraits celebrate resilience and creativity, marking him as an authentic voice in an era of fleeting trends.