The Artists that Have Influenced Me Most

Art has always been a driving force in shaping my life and personal style. Over the years, various artists have left a significant impact on me, each in their own unique way. Some works, such as the clown portrait painted by my brother-in-law, Franco Lo Cicero, have brought me joy and inspiration, while others, like the vibrant paintings of Mark Rothko, have deeply affected my perception and connection with art itself.

My Family's Artist: Franco Lo Cicero

My brother-in-law, Franco Lo Cicero, a well-known Sicilian painter, has had a profound influence on me. During my first visit to Sicily in 1975, he offered me a choice among his paintings. I chose a portrait of a clown, recognizing the artist’s features beneath the makeup. Franco was taken aback, as he considered it his lucky piece. He insisted I should keep it, and it has been a significant part of my home ever since.

This portrait, and others I have since collected, include elements of various media and inspiration from both his native Sicily and everyday objects. Here, I seek to capture a glimpse into his work, which my photography has not been able to fully represent.

Here is a photo of Franco with my husband Salvatore at Imera in Sicily in 1975:

The Kaleidoscope of Influences

Beyond the works of my family, my artistic tastes and influences are as varied as they are inspiring. Rembrandt’s tonal variation and mood, Picasso’s painting style, and Miro’s purity are just a few of the artists I admire. Hopper, Vermeer, the 1950s modernists, Dalí, and Dali all leave their mark on my appreciation for art. For me, the works of Mark Rothko stand out, especially his mature paintings that literally scintillated due to his delicate application of paint.

The Transformative Power of Rothko

During my first experience with Rothko’s work, I was drawn to stand inches from the canvas. Two of the floating rhombuses, typical of his style, hovered in close proximity. Without conscious thought, I was captivated by the molecules of delicately applied paint, which seemed to vibrate before my eyes. After a brief period, I became semi-conscious, partially hypnotized, and staggered slightly in an effort to regain my balance. This experience, I believe, was Rothko’s intention with these paintings, to transport the viewer to a different realm of perception.

Here is an example of Mark Rothko’s painting from 1956:

Multifaceted Influences

While there are countless artists who have influenced my art and personal style, one in particular stands out: Mark Rothko. His mature works, rich in color and depth, have a profound impact on me. They are not just visual art but an invitation to a deeper, more cognitive experience.

I am drawn to the works of Renaissance Women and the fashion photography of John Singer Sargent, as well as the exhibitions organized by the Baltimore Museum of Art featuring the works of Henri Matisse and Richard Diebenkorn. These artists and their works have been life-altering and continue to inspire me to appreciate the beauty and complexity of art.

Note: All images used in this article are for illustrative purposes and are example placeholders. Actual artworks and images should be sourced appropriately.