Chris DeRubeis

Art Brokerage: Park West Artist: Chris DeRubeis American Artist: b. 1978. Chris DeRubeis paints on metal, mixing pigments and chemicals and incorporating power tools and natural elements such as fire, water, and freezing techniques. He calls his art "Abstract Sensualism," in reference to the organic nature of his paintings. DeRubeis believes his work can alter the way people perceive contemporary art. Born in 1978, DeRubeis showed an early proclivity for drawing, which was quickly recognized by his family. At age 13, DeRubeis' grandfather gave him his first airbrush, and after watching him use it, proclaimed he would be the artist his grandfather had always dreamed of becoming. At age 20, DeRubeis attended the Pasadena Art Center and the Associates in Art school in Sherman Oaks, California. To pay for his education, he painted custom Harleys and started a successful small business. His professors tried to convince him to choose a more commercial style of art but he was never satisfied painting in a traditional manner. DeRubeis began experimenting with different tools to manipulate the way light reacted with metallic surfaces, and introduced chemicals and pigments which created unique reactions. Regarding his artwork, DeRubeis states, "I favor metal because I can combine a form of sculpture as the foundation for my expression and have found a way to enhance my ability to communicate emotions more intently. All art should inspire and evoke emotion. Art should be something you can actually feel." In 2005, DeRubeis' work was submitted and honored with two nominations by the First Annual Fine Art Awards, televised live from the MGM Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. Nominated in the "Mixed Media" and "New Movement" categories, he earned the MUSE Award in "New Movement." DeRubeis, then only 27, dedicated his award to his grandfather who had passed away just months earlier. His artwork has appeared on the DIY and HGTV networks. In 2009, he signed with famed art publisher David Smith. Now, DeRubeis' artwork is exhibited in galleries throughout the world. Listings wanted.