Keith B. Tarantino
Visual Illustrator
I specialize in various fine-line pen and ink work techniques, often incorporating a mix of surreal and figurative elements together to create otherworldly landscapes. I love experimenting with linework in terms of achieving subtle, repeated movement, where each line seems to vibrate and resonate with each other. I also enjoy playing with forced, or otherwise skewed visual perspectives in my work, emphasizing shape and shadow. Much of my formal inspiration comes from aspects of impressionism, intaglio printwork and lithography, as I am deeply interested in the ways texture interacts with space and form in those examples. Some notable artist inspirations of mine include the works of M.C. Escher, Ron Barrett, V.C. Johnson, Al Held, Dr. Seuss, and Paul Cezanne, specifically his still life work. I must also credit various East Asian and Islamic art as a point of reference for me additionally. Although there are some classical examples, I am continuously observing the contemporary art world around me to gain more knowledge and expertise as well.
Keith Tarantino(He/they)
Contact Information:Email Address........................ [email protected]Instagram: @artworkfromkeithEducational History:Hillsborough Township public k-8th Grade schooling, Hillsborough, New Jersey (2008-2018)Somerset County Vocational and Technical High School, Bridgewater New Jersey (Class of 2022)
Currently enrolled in Raritan Valley Community College’s Liberal Arts Department, and is working towards an AFA degree (Associates of Fine Art)Exhibitions/Gallery Representation:2024 RVCC Student Art Exhibition Part 1 (On Display February 26th- March 22nd, 2024)Manville Arts Council Expo 2024 Finalist (Work on display May 3rd- May 31st, 2024 in the Manville Township Public Library).
Atmosphere is a very integral part of what I make, as I try to imagine each of my pieces being set within their own unique worlds and realites, much like the individuality and complexity of people ourselves. I believe that each person has their own internal landscape of thoughts and ideas that can reveal themselves in otherworldly, creative ways. All in all, I use my own internal landscape within myself to create images, then I go back in to add detail to texture and shadow.
Certain types of music have also played a role in how my illustrations feel. I am aligned with how music/sound design can make each of us feel and look at things in different or particularly observational ways. Album LPs such as Mother Earth’s Plantasia by Mort Garson, Another Green World by Brian Eno, and Rubycon by Tangerine Dream are all pieces of music that foster my personal imagination and world building within 2-dimensional art.
All in all, I don't need anyone to take anything specific away from any piece I make, my only hope is that it could inspire others with what I love to create.