Richard J. Daley Branch hosts a Polish American Heritage Month art exhibit in October featuring artist Vincent Lotesto.
Vincent Lotesto is a Chicago artist of Polish descent. Lotesto’s primary choice of media is acrylic paint on canvas and mixed media illustrations.
Artist Statement
I feel that heritage is crucial to one’s identity; whether it is readily apparent or not. My name reflects my Italian ethnicity and my citizenship reflects that I was born into American culture. However, there is no immediate indication of my Polish heritage. It is for this reason that I occasionally feel disconnected from my Polish roots. Therefore, I occasionally produce works such as these pieces in order to embrace my Polish heritage.
Artist’s Descriptions of Artwork on Display
- An etching depicting a Polish Hussar on horseback: I personally feel that the Hussars are ideal representations of the valiant and unyielding nature one can find in Poland’s culture and history.
- A portrait of Pope St. John Paul II: I use a technique of portraiture to create a modern depiction of the beloved Polish figure.
- An interpretation of the Polish folk art of Wycinanki paper cutting: I have always enjoyed the decorative nature of the intricate patterns and colors found with in Polish folk art. My Wycinanki depicts the white eagle found on the Polish coat of arms with a pair of poppies, the national flowers of Poland.
