Dreams of the East

He is a virtual unknown in Portugal, but has a long career in plastic and visual arts. During our interview, Adrian Olteanu appeared introspective and even a little reserved. Possibly, as he also studied music (he plays the violin and piano), he prefers to listen rather than talk about himself.

After finishing his studies, Olteanu specialised in painting on glass, in the technique and style of masters like Daume Nancy, Muller, or Frenchman Emille Gallé (1846-1904) – possibly the most important names of art nouveau, whose glass objects are still appreciated today, due to their beauty and originality.

In the last few years, Olteanu has spent seasons in countries like Greece, Italy and Denmark, which he left only recently. In all these places, he survived entirely on his own capabilities. In Denmark, he had many orders, mostly for reproduction work. He has also spent time working in the restoration of religious icons, antique furniture and even churches.

As for the Algarve, he says he was attracted by the light (he only paints during the day), the climate and the scenery. Here, he hopes to have more time to devote to his own original works, in ceramics and jewellery, and in an area he would like to spend more time developing professionally – body painting. He has done a little of everything. From painting for children’s television programmes, to theatre make-up, advertising, videoclips for musical artists, and more.

In «Conexões», he’s presenting many different works. On one hand, it is an almost autobiographical show as the themes for his inspiration are places Olteanu has visited. On the other, this artist is clearly influenced by a certain fantastical lyricism and spiritual mysticism. Thus there are mermaids, polar auroras, and angel’s wings. When we ask him whether the fact that he is Romanian influences his art, Olteanu answers ‘yes’ with certainty. The proof is two canvases in the exhibition. The detailed «Opinci», the traditional Romanian shoes, and the colour of «Tulnic», a work which portrays a Romanian musical instrument, which is also used as a means of communication in the Apuseni mountains in Transylvania

Closing the exhibition could also be what opens the next, which should go ahead all being well, in Vila Real de Santo António. It’s a painting of two horses – inspired by the Feng Shui tradition – which will be theme of the next exhibition. In this ancient tradition, the horse is connected to the Yang energy (the masculine/ feminine principle), and also represents the symbol of fame and success…

«Conexões» is sponsored by «Doina – The Romanian and Moldovian Immigrants Association of the Algarve», created on 5th January 2007 in Almancil.