By Abby Bielagus By Abby Bielagus | February 27, 2024 | People, Feature, Art,
Artist Giovanni Decunto has a story to tell.
The artist in front of “The Joker,” acrylic on canvas.
Giovanni DeCunto’s (giovannidecunto.com) fantastical life story is almost hard to believe. He grew up on Lawrence’s tough streets where becoming an artist felt as possible as taking a walk on the moon. And yet, as legend has it, he sold his first painting at the age of twelve for $35. From there, the artist experienced a series of lucky right-place-at-the-right times, as well as down-on-your-luck times.
Abstract acrylic on canvas
DeCunto met mentors who helped him get his work shown, he studied in Italy, but he also struggled with homelessness. And through all the ups and downs and wild rides, he remained true to his hometown, never departing for the shiny shores of New York City. And in return, Boston has embraced him.
A portrait of the late Gianni Versace, acrylic on canvas.
DeCunto calls many of the city’s notable figures friends, and through his connections, he’s had the opportunity to paint beloved icons like Tony Bennet and Shaquille O’Neal. His art hangs in our local institutions and the walls of some of our most expensive homes. If nothing else, DeCunto’s is a story of perseverance. He never gave up on his dream, and these days, his life is in a galaxy far, far away from the streets of his youth.
“Medusa,” acrylic on canvas
Photography by: ROBERT HARE