John Provenzano’s paintings integrate images and text from our daily lives. Social Networks such as Twitter, Facebook and even bar codes are some of the references emerging from his work. The paintings are transformed by what has been described as Provenzano’s characteristic “layering process.” Evidence of previous layers of color and mark making are revealed in the highly energetic surfaces of the work.
As a graduate student at Boston University’s College of Fine Arts, Provenzano studied with internationally recognized sculptor, John Wilson, who is most well-known for his Martin Luther King Jr. memorial sculpture, at the United States Capitol Rotunda, in Washington, D.C. Provenzano credits Wilson’s character and commitment to his art as his personal inspiration. Upon graduating with a Master’s degree in Painting, Provenzano received the Esther B. and Albert S. Kahn Career Entry Award allowing him to continue working on his art the following year without interruption.
John Provenzano has developed a national following. He has exhibited his work extensively, including with the Judi Rotenberg Gallery on Newbury Street in Boston. His work has appeared on WHDH Channel 7 News when featuring the home of former Red Sox player, Manny Ramirez and he was commissioned by Orion Pictures to paint a series of paintings for the motion picture, Mermaids. Provenzano teaches art at the Boston Renaissance Charter School and is the co-founder of the First Street Collaborative, providing exhibition opportunities for artists. He lives in Dorchester and works out of his studio in South Boston.