Artist in Focus: Frank Malafronte
Frank Malafronte is an energetic artist with a kind soul. Throughout our correspondence, I have seen his absolute enthusiasm. His art stems from his travels and his passions. In a way, his work is nostalgic with just the right amount of comedy mixed in. His appetite for consumerism propels him to hide messages in the layers and drips of paint.
We asked him some questions about his travels and his art! Read his answers below. If anything sparks your interest, let him know! Frank is sure to respond back even with his active schedule!
What is your earliest art memory?
My earliest art memory was going to the MFA Museum in Boston for the first time. I grew up in Rhode Island so visiting Boston was always a great weekend trip as a child. My first memory was seeing some of the Monet paintings that are in the MFA. The rest was history for me.
What is your favorite piece on your UGallery portfolio? Why?
My favorite piece on UGallery is Tongues as it is one of the recent paintings of mine that illustrates my new themes, styles, and future of my art.
Have you been back to Brazil?
I have not been back to Brazil since I went in 2007. It was an amazing time in my life. I have never been anywhere where people have been so genuinely happy. About returning though, I really love exploring and learning about new places so I have been trying to have other adventures since then. I really do hope to go back though. Hopefully soon!
Who are your favorite artists?
I absolutely LOVE Gerhard Richter. I find his paintings mesmerizing. I could sit in front of them for hours. Vincent Van Gogh is an absolute favorite of mine as well. Cy Twombly! Jackson Pollock. Also, a photographer by the name of Sze Tsung Leong completely had me influenced and inspired for awhile as well. But the list of artists who I love and who inspire me could go on for pages!
What inspires your art?
My artwork is an expression of what I am truly passionate about at the moment I am creating it. My monstrous infatuation with being a “foodie” has completely taken over in the last few years. Hours are spent researching that hard to find restaurant that is cooking something heavenly in a dark, cavernous, alleyway; completely off the grid from those in the know. Combine this with my passion for travel and capitalism and the inspiration abounds. My current work explores the relationship between sustenance and consumerism. From bountiful kitchen countertops to specialized global markets to designer interiors of restaurants. That is what I am inspired to paint now and have had a lot of great feedback on.
What advice would you give to emerging artists?
Follow your heart, your mind, and CREATE. ALL OF THE TIME.
For fun, do you prefer brutal or beautiful art?
I definitely prefer brutal sublime art. Without a doubt!
Thanks so much for sharing, Frank! We hope you get a chance to travel some more too. (and get inspired and create even more art!)
