Anthony Iacono's colourful collages are bold and suggestive

Anthony Iacono’s work is full of intimate moments depicted in bold colours and soft brushwork. His collages are playful and teasing in their detail orientated compositions, which touch upon abstract elements of representation – the back of a neck, an exposed nipple, a leather belt. The focus of his subject matter hints at elements of BDSM and fetish culture with humorous undertones.

These clues are not misleading, as Anthony lists his influences as 80’s erotic thrillers and queer horror films. Lustful and mischievous, his work provides just enough narrative to be suggestive, but leaves enough ambiguity to allow the viewer to freely contemplate a myriad of possibilities. Colour block backdrops do little to contextualise each piece in terms of its setting and compositionally obscured figures obfuscate their identities. But it’s this anonymity that makes Anthony’s moments so evocative, as faceless characters often erotically engage with the focal figure of the painting in displays of submission and dominance.

Comprised of sections of paper which are all painted with acrylics, Anthony also notes how viewers frequently mistake his artistic method for air brushing, insisting that “in person, you can see the paint textures and layers”. Digitally, the various pieces of the collage appear smooth and polished, with only the subtlest of shading. Rounded edges harmoniously unite layers that contrast and clash with colour, creating works that are just as striking visually as they are thematically.

Anthony is currently showcasing a series of works in an exhibition titled Night Bonding at The Approach in Bethnal Green, London (21 February – 24 March), and has an upcoming solo presentation at Frieze New York in May, so make sure to see these captivating works in person.