Artist Statement

Coming from the United States and viewing Italy from my American frame of reference has been an enlightening experience. I approached this grafitti project in a literal manner- depicting and spelling out the vast contrasts between American and Italian culture. While I feel that culture in America is constantly evolving and developing, the culture here in Italy is stagnant and disappearing. As symbolized by the blooming flowers contrasted against dying trees, Italy, in my opinion, is failing as a contemporary country in the western world. Without attaining a new, open mindset that is open to immigrants, Italy will not be able to regain their position in the world as an economic and social power.