My name is Dean Marino and I am an Italian sculptor and designer, deeply rooted in the philosophy of wabi-sabi. This concept, which embraces the beauty of imperfection, impermanence and incompleteness, is the beating heart of all my creations.
My adventure in art began almost by chance. Self-taught, I found my path thanks to a clear vision and unwavering determination. With the support of my dear friend and colleague Mark Sugar, a conceptual pop artist, and under the guidance of my teacher Oscar Beletti, I have refined my techniques and broadened my horizons, connecting with art enthusiasts around the world, from the United United with Europe, up to Asia.
I use the Yakisugi technique, an ancient Japanese method of carbonizing wood, to create modern sculptures and furnishing accessories that reflect the wabi-sabi philosophy. Carbonized wood, treated with oil or beeswax, expresses the uniqueness and resilience of nature. Through this technique, I bring to life works that tell stories of beauty and simplicity, encouraging us to live in harmony with the imperfections of life.
Every piece I create is a tribute to nature. I use materials such as wood, stone and, sometimes, metal, transforming them into works of art that not only beautify environments, but offer refuge and meditation. My sculptures, minimalist and simple, become unique and precious gifts, suitable for any space, from the table to the corner of the room, making every environment special with a touch of natural charm.
One of the most important aspects of my work is the "refuge of the spirit", a composition of five elements that create an island of peace and introspection in people's homes. Among these elements are the daruma dolls, which represent perseverance and the achievement of goals, and the Hebi columns, which evoke the suppleness and strength of the serpent. The Chabudai, a Japanese coffee table, completes this composition, offering a corner to regenerate spiritually.
Recently, I had the honor of participating in the "Contemporary Views" exhibition in Bedizzole, an event organized by the architect Michele Cominelli, set up in the Cominelli 1840 showroom. This extraordinary, beautiful and emotional journey through contemporary art presented a selection eclectic mix of great Brescian artists, each with their own style and vision: Francesca Adamo, Daniele Caruso, Lorena Cottini, Lorenzo Favaron, Mara Pascarella, Tiziano Ragnoli, Mark Sugar and Matteo Vinati, all in a fascinating mix of painting, sculpture and design. Internationally renowned artists such as Patricia Urquiola, Carlo Mollino, Achille and Piergiacomo Castiglioni, Marcel Wanders, Gatti Paolini, Teodoro and Michel Duraroy were also present at the exhibition with their creations. Sharing the scene with these "giants" of design was a great honor and source of pride for me.
Being an artist today means communicating, sharing emotions and sacrifices, and finding a balance between tradition and modernity. With my creations, I try to raise public awareness, giving emotions and beauty through every sculpture, every piece of furniture. This is my mission, my contribution to the imperfect beauty of the world.