Chris Denovan

Chris Denovan (b. 1983, Cape Town, South Africa) is a multidisciplinary artist known for his surreal, expressive paintings and sketches that explore the interplay between strength and vulnerability. As a Queer man, Denovan navigates the world from a multitude of perspectives, incorporating themes of non-toxic masculinity, nature, love, and companionship into his work. practice seeks to heal and overcome feelings of fear and marginalization.

Denovan's work often depicts groups of characters in playful, carefree environments, emphasizing the harmony between human figures and nature. His art delves into the intricate balance between opposing forces such as order and chaos, pleasure and danger, love and war. His creations are infused with classical Greek aesthetics, offering a modern take on figuration and portraiture. Through transparent and solid textures, he captures both the robust strength and delicate vulnerability of his characters, blending strong masculine figures with elements of cubism and abstraction.

Represented by 99 Loop Gallery in Cape Town, SOTA Gallery Online, and Ebony Curated in Franschhoek, Denovan continues to create art that challenges preconceptions and celebrates diversity. His work offers a platform for healing and unity, inviting viewers to explore the complexities of human experience.