Joseph Iorio is not afraid of heights. He’s an ironworker whose daytime haunts are the bridges and skyscrapers of New York City. Back home in New Jersey, Joe is an artist. He paints abstract works that radiate the city’s chaotic energy. Intricate patterns mimic the complexity of lines and forms he sees from his high perches. What you might not expect is the bold color.
Joseph’s work reflects the intersection of industry and art. His unique blend of techniques and materials creates visually striking and conceptually layered paintings.
Mr. Iorio (b. 1976, Teaneck, NJ) lives and paints in Fair Haven, NJ. He received his BA in English Literature from Lafayette College (1998) and his MFA in Fine Arts from the School of Visual Arts (2003).
He has exhibited his work at the School of Visual Arts, New York, NY, and at the Grossman Gallery at Lafayette College, Easton, PA. Iorio also received a Joan Mitchell MFA grant nomination in 2003.
Jim Toia was Joseph’s first art mentor. Joseph took his first painting class with Jim during his senior year at Lafayette College in 1997. “Jim gave me the encouragement and confidence to paint and to pursue painting. He encouraged me to get my MFA and continue painting beyond school. I am truly grateful to Jim for helping me find this within myself. Jim is a wonderful artist and an amazing teacher”, says Joseph.
“Structural Abstractions” is Joseph’s first solo exhibition. “It’s deeply satisfying to nurture an artist and give them a platform at the beginning of their art careers,” said Ellen Martin, The Oyster Point Hotel’s curator.
The exhibition will run through Monday, July 1st. The cocktail reception will be Friday, May 3rd, 2024, from 6 – 8 p.m.
