Coalescence by Delfin Finley

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Delfin Finley is drawn to the enigmatic beauty of the human figure. As a child, he often sketched in notebooks, influenced by the vibrant murals and graffiti of South Central. His love for graffiti gradually evolved into a dedicated painting practice by the time he graduated high school. While refining his skills at Santa Monica College and ArtCenter, Finley found inspiration in the majestic works of William-Adolphe Bouguereau and John Singer Sargent. He admired their tactile depth but felt disconnected due to their exclusive focus on white subjects. This tension led him to pursue oil portraiture, painting individuals in his creative circles like Tyler, the Creator, and Earl Sweatshirt.

His series “Coalescence” represents a significant shift in Finley’s style. Building upon his fascination with the human figure, he incorporates a rope motif explored in group shows like “Shattered Glass” at Jeffrey Deitch in 2021. For Finley, the ropes symbolise the pleasures and traumas of Black and brown communities in the U.S. They intertwine with history, forming a resilient bond woven into the essence of identity.

With his raw painting talent, Delfin Finley’s lifelike oil portraits offer poignant reflections on racism’s impact. His work challenges viewers to reconsider biases, fostering empathy and connection.