Post 9 - Rocco Francisco Artist Statement and Bio Draft

Artist Statement

    My work seeks to explore several mediums while crossing the lines between reality and fiction.

    I have had an interest in art my entire life, drawing regularly as early as three years old. I primarily work digitally; however, I also have worked in physical mediums such as graphite, wood, metal, and various paints. As I work toward becoming a graphic designer, I want to expand on elements of typography, digital design, texture, and color. I seek to become proficient in as many different fields in art as possible, enjoying the process of learning.

    I love working with technology and using digital mediums for the sake of creation. The majority of my works are created using multiple softwares, leading to the creation of typographic works for screens, three dimensional models, brand mockups, and motion graphics. My commercial oriented graphic design works focus on ideas of following geometric form to create bold, eye-catching iconography akin to the ideas of the Bauhaus. I take the foundations of Modernist graphic design and combine them with ideas of technology and abstraction to create forms suitable for products.

    There are many people who influence my work and the subject matter, such as the futuristic environments and signage of Syd Mead or the kinetic movement of Keith Haring. My work also takes inspiration from my musical works under the alias "RyuuAkito." Virtual worlds and science fiction are a common muse for my digital works. Exploring ideas such as that of integrating visual technology into environments and combining nature with technology are recurring themes in my work. My physical pieces are typically more grounded in reality, usually focusing on capturing the essence and look of a place or person.

    My art often uses sharp lines, angles, and shapes to create a full image. I particularly enjoy works that involve geometric forms, appearing fractured at times. I create works with silhouettes focusing on themes of self-reflection. These are inspired by my memories, with my poor eyesight leading to many of these memories being faceless.  By using simple forms and color selection, these fragmented works offer a way for the viewer to see themselves with my silhouette pieces offering a sense of uncertainty.

    I believe it is worth making works from ranging perspectives and subject matters, including topics that are serious and ones that are simply explored for the audience and artist’s enjoyment. There is also value in leaving a piece's meaning up to interpretation. I keep taking risks and attempting to work in new avenues as I practice new techniques as a young artist.

Artist Bio

    Rocco Francisco is a graphic designer and musician based in Jersey City. Rocco is attending New Jersey City University on a four year scholarship. Currently working towards a BFA in graphic design, Rocco focuses on ideas related to technology, integrating the bold fundamentals of graphic design with ideas of dynamic experimentation from his music. Having first created digital art on a home computer at the age of five, he has since focused on expanding his skill sets in digital media while still learning the foundations of physical mediums. His work ranges from digital posters and web design to that of motion graphics and animation. Rocco is most known for his audiovisual work under the alias "RyuuAkito" where he publishes music, most notably founding and hosting the 2020 album "Somewhere in Nevada."