Nicola Sphicas' paintings and watercolors on the theme of chess are exquisite and immensely intriguing. His decorative details and mosaic like patterns (reminiscent of Klimt) are compelling and original and while ancient sources inspire his work, he has introduced his personal elements, which are innovative and unique.
His work is characterized by a marvelous range of expression and his style plays noble homage to the grand Greek classical figurative tradition, including that continued by Chirico. At the same time, it calls to mind the delicate sparkle of Byzantine mosaics as well as the decorative patterns of Gustave Klimt and even the colorful lyrical abstraction of Kadinsky watercolors, and all of these with his own stamp of originality.
The connection he has found with the game of chess and so many others facets of art and life is really impressive and extremely interesting. However, his work is so varied and one can definitely distinguish the Egyptian influence in them, as the painter was born and raised in Egypt.
Denise McColgan
Curatorial Assistant
Department of Paintings and Sculpture
Yale Center for British Art
His work is characterized by a marvelous range of expression and his style plays noble homage to the grand Greek classical figurative tradition, including that continued by Chirico. At the same time, it calls to mind the delicate sparkle of Byzantine mosaics as well as the decorative patterns of Gustave Klimt and even the colorful lyrical abstraction of Kadinsky watercolors, and all of these with his own stamp of originality.
The connection he has found with the game of chess and so many others facets of art and life is really impressive and extremely interesting. However, his work is so varied and one can definitely distinguish the Egyptian influence in them, as the painter was born and raised in Egypt.
Denise McColgan
Curatorial Assistant
Department of Paintings and Sculpture
Yale Center for British Art