Born to Italian parents, Aldo was raised in Argentina. While growing up he was exposed to the arts through painting and playing the piano. But his true love when young was playing soccer. “Painting and soccer are like walking to me. So natural.”
In fact, after graduating from the Academy of Fine Art in Buenos Aires, Aldo Luongo played professional soccer for the New York Cosmos. A few relocations, injuries and a stint as a jewelry designer later, the artist completed the circle by returning to painting.
Flatteringly reviewed as a Post-Impressionist by the New York Times, Luongo confesses that at first he was annoyed at being categorized. However, since many of his favorite painters were Impressionists, he also understood the sincerity of the compliment. “Every artist adapts the best qualities of his favorite artists, but I’m always conscious of capturing bits of life, of reality, of situations, of people. It’s my space in time.”
Aldo Luongo captures his subjects in a direct way. “I attack the canvas like I play soccer – with vigor. Soccer is my counterpoint to painting. While painting, I’m confined, lonely, enmeshed in emotions and self-doubt. Then comes the sweat and focus of a really good game and I feel whole again. Life is a matter of balance.”
For Luongo, the real journey is told by his most recognizable image, The Hawk; a self-portrait of the artist himself with the character of the old man as his future self. What makes The Hawk so compelling? Look at the eyes – they mirror the soul of a man who has lived a rich, full life and still sees the joy in every moment.
Career highlights and celebrity collectors:
- Edward G. Robinson
- Anthony Quinn
- Kevin Costner
- Dionne Warwick
- Yul Brynner
- Charleton Heston
- Rob Reiner
- Official Olympic artist for the 1988 Summer Games
- Official Olympic artist for the 1996 Summer Games
Featured
Sunny
Size 25" x 38"
