Rizaldy Celi Jr.

"The Coward" - Expressionist Realism Self-Portrait Oil Painting in Muted Palette

2025

Rizaldy Celi Jr. (b. 1983, California, USA) is a transformative figure in contemporary art, whose journey through personal redemption has shaped his vibrant and emotive large-scale mixed-media works. Within just five years, Rizaldy has achieved considerable acclaim, with notable exhibitions like 'Stages of Grief' at The De Young Museum and representation at the San Francisco Art Fair '24 by The American Art Gallery. Initially driven by a need to process complex personal emotions, Rizaldy’s work offers a profound insight into the human condition. His pieces, often beginning as intimate self-explorations, have struck a chord with audiences, allowing them to resonate with his candid explorations of love and despair. Rizaldy characterizes his work as a skillful blend of Baroque aesthetics and contemporary sensibilities, drawing profound inspiration from the timeless techniques of Old Masters like Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and Rubens. Transitioning from photography to painting, he has embraced the tactile qualities of oil and acrylic paints to better express these themes. Rizaldy values the patience required in painting, a contrast to his earlier work in film and photography, where collaboration sometimes hindered his creative autonomy. Now, his paintings often find a place in the intimate setting of home décor, reflecting his preference for personal connection over commercial visibility. Rizaldy's professional and creative evolution is a testament to his belief in hope and the transformative power of accepting responsibility for one’s happiness and creative expression. His works are not only artistic but also deeply personal, inviting viewers to engage in a shared emotional experience. While his paintings often explore universal human conditions, they are imbued with Rizaldy's journey of redemption, resilience, and self-discovery. Many of his pieces now grace private collections and intimate spaces, reflecting his belief in art’s ability to forge personal connections beyond commercial galleries. A self-taught artist, Rizaldy’s evolution underscores his commitment to growth, hope, and authenticity. Each work he creates is an original, one-of-a-kind piece that carries a part of his story—a testament to the transformative power of art.