Adamo Macri is a multimedia artist born in Montreal, Canada, in 1964. His work spans photography, sculpture, video, painting, and drawing, blending mediums in unexpected ways. Macri’s creative approach starts with the tangible—everything in his art stems from objects. Whether crafting the contours of a sculpture or capturing an image through his lens, his process is deeply grounded in materiality.
Macri’s artistic journey began at Dawson College, where he studied commercial art, graphic design, photography, art history, and fine arts. This varied education laid the groundwork for his diverse practice. Over time, Macri has carved out a unique space in the art world, pushing past traditional boundaries to explore themes of identity, transformation, and human connection. He frequently uses himself as a model, creating a deeply personal connection to his work. This vulnerability allows him to explore the internal and subjective aspects of existence, offering a raw authenticity to his creations.
One of Macri’s photographic works, Citing A Medium, reveals the depth of his philosophy. The 30″ x 30″ piece has never been publicly exhibited or published, but Macri has shared reflections on its creation. He considers himself “the medium,” a concept inspired by an ARToday article that shifted his perspective. The idea resonates deeply with him, especially in its connection to historical art traditions.
Macri emphasizes maintaining a high level of excitement throughout the creative process. He describes inspiration as a delicate balance, with ideas often waiting for the right moment to coalesce into a cohesive piece. This careful orchestration of enthusiasm and patience ensures his work sustains a compelling energy.
For Macri, creating is less about making objects disappear, as a magician might, and more about conjuring something from nothing. He refers to his process as constructing a “self-fabricated landscape,” where persona and artifice drive the work. This interplay of real and imagined elements challenges the viewer to suspend disbelief, immersing them in his world.
Another of Macri’s works, Jahrfish raid, delves into environmental themes. This 33″ x 34.5″ photographic piece is part of a larger project that blends sculpture and photography to address industrial waste contamination. Macri explores the abrasive effects of man-made pollutants on nature, focusing on the fragile relationship between humanity and the environment.
In an interview, he described his concern over how industrial poisons impact living organisms. “It’s horrifying to think that something so aggressive might come into contact with something as delicate and defenseless as nature’s creatures,” he said. This recurring theme in his work reflects his deep unease about the ongoing harm caused by human activity.
The Jahrfish project embodies Macri’s ability to layer meaning. The sculptural components evoke the physicality of contamination, while the photographs create a visual narrative that brings his message to life. These works challenge viewers to consider their role in environmental degradation and the urgent need for change.
Macri’s decision to use himself as a model adds a layer of intimacy to his work. This choice stems from his belief that art is deeply personal. By placing himself at the center, he bridges the gap between creator and creation, inviting viewers to engage with his work on a human level.
His approach also reflects his commitment to exploring identity and transformation. Each piece becomes a self-portrait of sorts, capturing different facets of his experiences and perspectives. This exploration of self aligns with his broader goal of crafting art that resonates on an emotional and intellectual level.
Macri strives to create pieces that hold the viewer’s attention, inviting them into his carefully constructed landscapes. His practice is driven by a blend of curiosity and discipline, with each piece serving as a window into his interests and passions.
Macri’s art is not static. It evolves with his experiences, reflecting the interplay between his personal journey and the world around him. His use of multiple mediums allows him to adapt and experiment, ensuring his work remains fresh and dynamic.
Adamo Macri’s art defies easy categorization. Rooted in materiality but imbued with personal and philosophical depth, his creations invite viewers to explore complex themes of identity, transformation, and environmental responsibility. Whether through the intimate self-reflection of Citing A Medium or the ecological commentary of Jahrfish raid, Macri’s work challenges us to think more deeply about our connection to the world and to ourselves.
Through his innovative use of mediums and willingness to make himself part of the narrative, Macri continues to carve out a space that is uniquely his own. His art is a testament to the power of creativity to bridge the gap between the tangible and the transcendent, offering viewers a chance to step into his world and see through his eyes.
