Upcoming Exhibition in Buffalo, NY
On February 7th, 2025, Buffalo Art Movement (BAM716.com) will host an exhibition showcasing the works of Markenzy Cesar and Michael Constantine, E=MC2. This exhibition will provide an opportunity for art enthusiasts to experience the powerful and evocative works of these two talented artists. The gallery will feature a curated selection of their paintings, offering a comprehensive view of their artistic journeys and the themes they explore. This exhibition promises to be a significant cultural event, celebrating the contributions of these two contemporary artists to the art scene in Western New York.
E=MC²: The Fusion of Art and Identity in the Works of Markenzy J. Cesar and Michael Constantine
The famous equation E=MC², formulated by Albert Einstein, represents the relationship between energy (E), mass (M), and the speed of light (C). This equation, which revolutionized our understanding of the physical universe, can also serve as a metaphor for the dynamic interplay of energy, identity, and creativity in the art of Markenzy Cesar and Michael Constantine. These two contemporary figurative artists from Western New York, with their Caribbean origins, bring a powerful and evocative perspective to the vulnerabilities of the human condition and its constant need for close intimacy. Both artists, bring their cultural upbringings and the scars from past identity crisises as immigrants to their work.
Markenzy Cesar was born in Haiti and moved to the United States in 1987. He pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the State University of New York College at Buffalo, where he developed a strong connection to the region. Cesar’s paintings are characterized by their vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, which reflect his Caribbean heritage and the complexities of his immigrant experience. His work often delves into themes of displacement, cultural identity, and the emotional struggles of adapting to a new environment. Through his art, Cesar captures the resilience and strength of individuals navigating the challenges of immigration while also highlighting their vulnerabilities.
Michael Constantine, another prominent artist from Western New York, also draws inspiration from his Caribbean roots. Native from New York, but raised in Jamaica by his grandmother, Constantine’s work is influenced largely by the Dadaism movement and integrates his past experiences as a black man in America into his work. Recently, Michael Constantine has pivoted into a more controlled yet unsettling composition. Constantine’s new figurative paintings exhibit emotional depth and intricate details. His past and present work often portrays the human condition in its rawest form, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of Black men and women. His paintings evoke a sense of empathy and understanding, inviting viewers to reflect on the shared human experience of seeking belonging and acceptance.
E=MC2 by featuring the works of Markenzy Cesar and Michael Constantine would be a compelling exploration of contemporary figurative art from Western New York. The contrast between Cesar’s vibrant, expressive paintings and Constantine’s emotionally charged, detailed works would provide a diverse and engaging experience for viewers. The exhibition highlights the unique approaches of each artist while also showcasing the rich cultural heritage and artistic talent of the Caribbean immigrant community.