Mike Silva's work are balanced between a strong presence and a subtle understatement that are intimately linked to his personal memories. His paintings showcase portraits, luminous still life, and interiors that reveal light breaking through windows onto everyday objects like half-empty shelves, record decks, and kitchen sinks. These settings are temporary dwellings within the short-life tenancy housing co-op that the artist has been a part of for an extended period of time. Silva employs his own personal photographs, depicting personal belongings like discarded headphones or dirty dishes, to capture the essence of his life and that of previous occupants, creating eerie yet therapeutic portraits. Using a photorealistic technique with a blurred effect, Silva frequently features friends and lovers in poses that highlight their masculinity, capturing moments of tenderness and vulnerability between the artist and the subject. Through the use of soft lighting, muted colors, and serene moments Silva evokes a mood that is affirmative yet gently mournful. ...
