Selected by Russell Tovey, Kyle Coniglio’s practice revolves around creating fictional imagery based on his lived experience. He says, ‘Taking cues from the history of western painting – specifically baroque, mannerist and rococo periods – I use colour and light to direct the emotional narrative of each piece. I am particularly interested in depictions of male vulnerability, which I approach through a queer lens. Boardwalk Buddy is inspired by an almost nostalgic longing to be with friends on Fire Island – a place where queer friendships reign supreme. Using hues of yellow and orange to conjure a sense of summer heat, the painting greets the viewer with a friendly companion bathed in the glow of afternoon sunlight. The figure gazes out at the viewer – making direct eye contact – to establish a sense of connection and empathy.’

Kyle Coniglio has his MFA in painting from Yale University and a BFA from Montclair State University. He has been a fellow of the Queer Art Mentorship program in New York and an affiliated fellow at the American Academy in Rome. His work has been included in shows in New York, Los Angeles, and Berlin. Coniglio will present a solo show with Taymour Grahne Projects in London in 2022. He lives and works in Hoboken, New Jersey.