Apex Chariots
De Salvo returns with a new vehicle for Animal Art. His Apex Chariots are human-driven chariots sculpted from rattan and unicycle components. By depicting images of long extinct animals on the shield of each chariot, de Salvo emphasizes the obvious absence of an animal propellant. Unlikely creatures like the Stellar’s Sea Cow (extinct since 1768 due to over-hunting) act as an emblem, playfully mimicking the common use of animals as symbols of automobiles, while reminding viewers of the sometimes dire consequences of human intervention in the animal world. Despite its focus on several ill-fated members of the animal kingdom, the message of de Salvo’s piece is ultimately hopeful. It suggests that if future generations are aware of those animals lost through human neglect or abuse, better efforts will be made to preserve and protect existing animals.
About Roman De Salvo
Conceptual artist Roman de Salvo uses everyday objects and materials to produce sculptures and installations that are both restrained and high-spirited, blending his fascination with machines and craftsmanship with an interest in language and wordplay. De Salvo attended The California College of Arts and Crafts in Oakland, CA where he received his BA and the University of California, San Diego for his MFA. He has shown professionally throughout the United States and in Europe, including at the Whitney Biennial; the Musee d’Art Americain Giverny; the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego; The California Biennial at the Orange County Museum of Art; the Seattle Art Museum; the Public Art Fund in New York; and the Nevada Museum of Art. De Salvo’s public commissions include the City of San Diego; the California Department of Transportation Headquarters; the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego; The New Children’s Museum, San Diego; and the California Center for the Arts Museum, Escondido.
Question & Answer
Q: If you could become any type of animal, what would you be?
A: Octopus.
Q: Favorite food?
A: Improvised meals with ingredients fresh from the garden.
Q: What do you do regularly to help save the environment?
A: Ride my bike instead of my truck whenever I can and hang my laundry out to dry instead of using a dryer.
Q: Favorite smell and sound?
A: Hot springs. When my dog sings along with a passing siren.
Q: What was your first pet?
A: A dog named Larry.
Q: What’s an unusual and interesting fact about you?
A: I have a miniature closet where I hang my socks on the little hangers that they come with at the store.
Q: Favorite game?
A: Basketball, chess.
Q: What band or musician best represents you?
A: The Who.
Q: Do you have a favorite animal joke?
A: No.
Q: Do you talk to animals?
A: Of course!
Question & Answer
RomandeSalvo.com
de Salvo on Wikipedia
Show Down at Quint
Nexus Eucalyptus in Old Town
Split, Splice, Splay, Display
