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Park Life: Matthew Palladino.

Review by Libby Nicholaou: Matthew Palladino's paintings quickly catch you from afar with their bright colors, just as fast as the concepts impress you up close.  His work is sexually charged in a prurient way, yet conveyed artistically.  The violence between mammals (humans included) occurs in cyclical patterns expressed through mirrors, costumes that might not be costumes, and repeated images with slight alterations.   There is a sense of self-consciousness in all his subjects that leads back to introspection in the viewer.

Review by Mike Lin: Matthew Palladino's subject matter seems to draw inspiration from current media events that are challenging and sensationalized. Gang banging, internet porn, and ferocious zoo tigers are but some of the themes in this show. A few pieces provide a brief moments of levity and humor, for instance, a watercolor of a red and blue origami like bandana titled "Chris Johanson As a Conflicted Gang Member" is incredibly whimsical, as is the flat multi-colored painting "Shadows' Shadow (Hyper Rubik's Cube)." Palladino is 22 years old, and a native San Franciscan. He attended and dropped out of California College of the Arts. He recently returned to San Francisco, after living in Portland, Oregon for a brief stint.

Comment by AB: This dude is exceptionally talented. Note to savvy buyers-- snag one (or more) of these watercolors for the portfolio FAST. Not only are they excellent, but they're priced bodaciously right. Major upside potential here.