Nicola Parente creates expressive abstract paintings and photography.  Born in Italy, he draws from his rich Italian heritage and a deep well of cross-cultural experiences to bring his art to life. Working in a variety of media, he engages the viewer in dialogues of human encounter within the urban environment. Inspired by changes in metropolitan communities, his art defines the intersections of daily urban life and timeless multi-cultural celebration. His paintings capture the fluidity and static elements of the urban matrix, referencing the architectonic images, reflections, and rhythms of its landscape. Mr. Parente completed his undergraduate studies at King’s College and his masters from the University of St. Thomas. Most recently, Parente’s work was selected for Texas Art 2010 juried exhibition, his series Edge of Awakening were featured in a solo exhibition at Gremillion &Co Fine Art, and he created a dynamic video/painting installation for Terminus, a Dominic Walsh Dance Theater production.  In 2009, his work was featured in an exhibition, Transparent/Translucent, at the Museum Gallery, University of Texas, in San Antonio. In 2008, Parente was featured artist and collaborator for Dominic Walsh Dance Theater’s Terminus, and was selected for the Texas National 2008 and Texas Art 2008 juried exhibitions. His works can be seen in public and private collections in the US and abroad.