Kei J. Constantinov

Best known for her neo-medieval "magic realist" paintings dealing with courtesans, organ grinder monkeys, Moors and vanished landscapes, Kei J. Constantinov's work may be likened to historical fiction excerpts: gilded vignettes of a European dreamtime featuring Venice.

Her self-crafted oil panels embedded within frames redolent of 15thC Italy, enhance her narrative oil and egg tempera work, executed with time-honored Flemish and verdaccio techniques. In tandem with ancient materials she often uses contemporary methods and tools, such as CMYK oil glazing for an indirect and jewel-like effect.

Conjuring influences such as Albrecht Durer, Rembrandt, Holbein and German illuminated manuscripts, she invites us to reflect on her imagined, nostalgic milieu, reconsidering the splendor of human folly.