For Cris Cristofaro, the blank canvas is not an empty space—it is a construction site, a foundation upon which compositions are built. Viewing forms as three-dimensional materials, the approach to painting is deeply structural. Lines become steel rebar, reinforcing and bracing the composition, while stacked forms resemble bricks or stones that support and hold one another in place. Gravity plays a crucial role, as shapes appear heavy, pulling downward through space, imbuing the artwork with a sense of physicality and movement.
This architectural approach to painting challenges the conventional perception of two-dimensional art. Each element within the composition interacts dynamically, affected by invisible forces of weight and tension. While minimalism often leads to cold, distant aesthetics, this work defies that tradition by incorporating warm and inviting colors. This choice fosters an environment where viewers feel encouraged to engage rather than remain passive observers.
The Origins of an Artistic Vision
Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Cristofaro developed a deep passion for art from an early age. Formal training began at the Art Institute of Chicago, an institution known for shaping some of the most innovative artists of the modern era. Further refinement came through studies at the prestigious Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture, a program renowned for fostering creativity and experimentation.
After leaving Skowhegan, New York City became the next destination—a hub of artistic evolution. Upon arrival, a loft on West 22nd Street became home, only to later discover that it had once been the studio of the legendary Willem de Kooning. This serendipitous moment symbolized a passing of the torch from one generation of groundbreaking artists to the next.
A Career in Teaching and Exhibition
Balancing both creation and education, Cristofaro spent over 33 years as a professor at The City University of New York, inspiring students with a unique perspective on structural abstraction.
Beyond academia, exhibitions have been extensive, with pieces held in numerous public and private collections. The artistic journey has led to galleries and institutions where this work has been celebrated for its innovative approach to form and space. By seamlessly merging structure with emotion, a distinct niche has been carved within contemporary art.
Recognition and Prestigious Grants
Over the course of a distinguished career, numerous accolades have affirmed the significance of this artistic contribution. Among the most notable recognitions are two awards from the Adolf and Esther Gottlieb Foundation, an organization that supports mature artists committed to their craft.
Additional honors include a grant from the Pollock-Krasner Foundation, which assists artists in achieving creative goals, as well as The Change Grant and recognition from The American Artist Foundation. Each of these highlights a lasting impact on the field.
These grants not only validate the artistic vision but also provide the means to continue exploring new dimensions within the work. Securing such esteemed support underscores the importance and resonance of this practice within the broader art community.
The Transformation of Space: From Factory to Studio
In 2014, a transformative endeavor took shape—the acquisition of an old crochet factory. Rather than allowing the space to remain a relic of the past, a vision emerged to breathe new life into it. Through meticulous renovation, the industrial site was converted into a vibrant live-work studio, embodying a philosophy of art as both a practice and a way of life.
This space serves as more than just a studio—it is a testament to the belief in the structural integrity of art. Just as forms on the canvas are manipulated to create stability and cohesion, a physical space was reconstructed to reflect the artistic vision. It stands as a living, breathing extension of the work, where creativity flourishes in an environment designed for exploration and innovation.
The Legacy of Structural Abstraction
Through a unique approach to painting, Cristofaro continues to redefine contemporary art, constructing visual experiences that are at once architectonic and deeply human. By merging the structural elements of construction with the emotive power of color and form, a style has been forged that resonates across artistic disciplines.
This work challenges viewers to reconsider the nature of abstraction—not as an intangible or distant concept but as something tangible, weighty, and profoundly interactive. As the boundaries of structural abstraction continue to be pushed, the legacy grows, leaving an indelible mark on the world of modern art.
From the foundations of a blank canvas to the transformation of a historic factory, this journey stands as a testament to the power of vision, determination, and the endless possibilities of artistic creation.
