Andréa Grasso

Andréa, a multi-disciplinary visual artist, finds his canvas predominantly within the public domain. Specializing in murals and socially-engaged art projects, his intent is to democratize contemporary art's accessibility and challenge the status quo.

"Invariably, our urban landscapes lean towards the mundane—adrift in squares, drabness, and a palette of earthy hues." Determined to combat this ennui, Andréa has been creating site-specific murals that boldly defy the conventions of our traditional surroundings. His work draws much of its' inspiration from architecture, graffiti, and graphic design; Subverting the built-environment through a kaleidoscopic gaze.

Currently, Andréa is exploring the visual and structural relationships of the interconnected realities we are all subjected to on a daily basis. This includes the natural, built, and digital Environments. These concepts are visually manifested utilizing architectural geometry, plant life and representational urban decay, and created with design collaboration utilizing machine learning programs. Together, these aspects create dynamic and intricate compositions which are vibrant, energetic, and move effortlessly through space.

Andréa holds a background in graphic design from The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, studied social-practice art and fine arts at Portland State University, and obtained a Masters in Urban Planning from Temple University in Philadelphia. With a decade of experience as a public artist, his focus currently lies mostly in mural-based projects, alongside a strong interest in placemaking and other creative interventions within public spaces. Additionally, Andréa has served as a project manager and developer for several public art initiatives in Philadelphia and is currently living in Lisbon, Portugal.

2023
Prisma Estúdio, Lisbon, Portugal
Artist-in-residence. Experimented with stained glass production techniques as a medium for abstract art creation, and furthered my street art practices.

2014
Little Berlin, Philadelphia, PA
Part of a group show entitled “Floorplan”, where I performed and created a live art piece on a 6’x9’ canvas on the ground. This involved painting myself wearing different outfits while seated in different positions. Final piece created was entitled “Narcissus”.
Dick Blick Art Supplies, Philadelphia, PA
Showing of selected works for in-store exhibition.

2013
Goldilocks Gallery, Philadelphia, PA
Curated and participated in a social-justice themed art event entitled “Belly of the Beast”. The event showcased work from an ex-federal prison inmate, Jesse Krimes, myself, and Philly Print Works, A Philadelphia-based social-justice print shop. For the event, I also prepared a prison-style meal from the weekly Federal prison food calendar for visitors. Friday opening was ‘French Toast Friday’.