Vito Piacente is a Toronto-based artist whose works provoke psychological juxtapositions between two extremes, such as fortitude and fragility, pain and pleasure, fulfillment and self-annihilation.

Born in 1976, Piacente demonstrated an avid interest in art at a very early age and met his mentor, Pietro Adamo, who supported his artistic inclinations. As an established artist, Piacente’s creative path has unfolded across three decades, marked by a lifelong dedication to artistic expression and the profound evolution of his craft. With a wealth of experience and a seasoned eye honed by years of exploration, his artistry encapsulates a depth of insight and a rich tapestry of influences.

His journey in art has traversed pencil on paper, oil on canvas and the digital landscape, reflecting a versatile approach that resonates with the essence of the human experience. From graffiti to mixed media, his work aims to encapsulate the wisdom, stories, and emotions gathered over a lifetime.

Drawing inspiration from Impressionism and Cubism to commercial art and modern media, Piacente’s creations echo a profound understanding of life's nuances. Each stroke, sculpted form, or composition reflects an amalgamation of wisdom, passion, and a relent- less pursuit of artistic truth.

Throughout his career, Piacente has been honored with showcases across Canada, including Toronto, Montreal, and Yorkville, as well as the United States, contributing to a legacy that continues to inspire and connect with audiences across generations. As an established artist, Piacente’s mission remains rooted in sharing stories, provoking contemplation, and leaving a lasting imprint through the timeless language of art.

Artist Statement

Art. The very best has withstood the test of time - the ultimate expression of humanity, where imagination and creativity cross paths with skill and ability. All through the ages, humans have expressed themselves via this unique combination of mental and physical, to leave an enduring message, one that is always left open to interpretation, by other humans.  From the earliest scratches into some wall of rock, to the mixed media creations which are my focus, visual art in particular has left an indelible mark on how we, as humans, think, feel, and behave. At its core, visual art is meant to engage, to solicit a reaction, a thought, or an even deeper feeling.

Whether one’s eyes, mind, and soul are struck by art that is beautiful, ugly, complex, simple, realistic, or fantastic, the basic goal of art impacting has remained. We are so blessed to have, after centuries and indeed millennia, artistic wonders from bygone times. They continue to impact and inspire. They are a priceless product of their time, of their generations’ souls. Likewise, I hope that my visual creations, which are produced from what I believe to be a similar type of creative and emotional wellspring deep inside me - represent a reflection of who I am, and the time in which I exist. It’s my hope that these works, too, spark reaction, inspiration, and provoke thoughts and feelings from their viewers.