TitanMan Alex Baresi (alexbaresi.eu) is the subject of a new painting by world renowned Australian artist Ross Watson. Watson’s choice of model, Baresi, for his most recent major painting could not have been more fitting. Painting the classically handsome Italian, who was voted International Gay Porn Star for 2007, before Caravaggio’s smiling St. John is apt indeed.
When Caravaggio unveiled his painting in 1600, it caused a scandal in Rome. Commissioned by the Cardinal Del Monte, the painting shocked the church. St. John’s depiction, naked and smiling at the viewer and clutching a ram, a symbol of lust, was unprecedented.
Watson’s art is collected by major museums, including the National Gallery of Australia, and distinguished private collectors including Sir Elton John and J.D. Wolfensohn, former World Bank President. Ross’ last major painting featured Scissor Sisters front man Jake Shears, who was recommended as a model by Elton John.
Over four centuries on, Watson, an Australian artist with an international audience, has provided Baresi - one of the most popular porn actors of his time - with the most perfect and complimentary visual metaphors, deftly fusing the classical and contemporary.
“Having known Ross Watson for a long time, and been a collector of his art, I had the opportunity recently to visit his gallery, which reconfirmed my belief that he is a great talent,” says Sir Elton John. “I never tire of his paintings; he is a leader in contemporary realism.”
“Ross’ work masterfully encapsulates realism and desire,” says Jake Shears of Scissors Sisters.
Limited edition prints are available from the original painting. Each Giclee edition print is numbered and hand-signed by the artist, on archival museum quality papers. The quality of the Giclee print rivals traditional silver-halide and gelatin printing processes and is commonly found in museums, art galleries, and photographic galleries. Sizes provided are the unframed image size. Ten percent of each sale of edition prints of Untitled #01/08 (after Caravaggio, 1600) will be donated to Alex’s nominated charity - Münchner AIDS-Hilfe.
For additional information or to purchase a print online, please visit the Ross Watson Gallery of Melbourne, Australia at rosswatson.com. Who could argue with Elton John? Ross’ pieces are absolutely stunning!
