Dion Rosina's practice begins with research. Looking for strange stories, mysteries on the verge of paranormal unexplained phenomenons, mythologies, but also significant figures and moments in history, he collects a variety of related visuals that may or may not capture the essence of the story behind it. By putting those together, first digitally (creating more of a composition than a finished work), and then with oils on canvas, he subverts
the original story and creates an even wilder narrative.

Anvthing from photos of celestial bodies, over ancient figures or patterns, to jazz photography, can be jumbled together, providing a number of (mostly deceiving) clues. Rendered in oil using traditional painterly techniques, the visuals show great attention to light play and stark contrasts. Often shrouded in pitch darkness, the figures are barely recognizable, further accentuating the cryptic nature of these assemblages. On too of that the sections
get frequently brushed off, giving the paintings a sense of relevance and significance through this antiquated, worn out veneer. And although appearing limited in color, the intricate brushwork reveals lavers of different hues that construct the predominant b/w or sepia tint.

Adding warmth/coldness to the overall composition, these color additions also make the work feel more alive, authentic, and almost document-like. From this cunning way of obscuring the pigment to the overall collage concept, Rosina is portraying the fragile condition of reality
with a clear interest in underexposed history, immigration, repression, and alienation.


-Saša Bogojev