Cocotta Nostra

] When organized crime hits the henhouse. With "Cocotta Nostra," I invite you into a feathered version of the Roaring Twenties. Far from serene landscapes, this painting sets the scene for a noir story tinged with dark humor.

Center stage, the fearsome local godmother, Alberta Chapone (aka "Al Chapone"), rules over her gang. The atmosphere is heavy. On the ground, the clues of the scandal are visible: a sack of "Dried Mealworm Powder" (the contraband goods), illicit eggnog, and stacks of ill-gotten cash.

Also take a look at the back wall: the 'Chez Robert' training target reminds us that in this gang, rotisseries are no laughing matter!

Oil on canvas, worked in successive layers. To bring the dense, "mobster" plumage to life, I extensively used the sgraffito technique. This process involves scratching into the wet paint to reveal underlying layers or create a unique graphic texture. It adds a specific vibration and subtle relief that can only be fully appreciated by viewing the canvas in person.

Because it dares to use dark humor with elegance, and every detail tells a story. A piece with character for lovers of narrative art.