Pino was born in Bari, Italy on November 8, 1939, where he began his studies at the city's Art Institute. In 1960, he entered Milan's Academy of Brera where he perfected his talent and skill for painting nudes. In the two years Pino studied at the Academy, he came under the influence of the Pre-Raphaelites and Macchiaioli. He also experimented with Expresssionism of the late sixties during his stay in Milan.
From 1960 to 1979, Pino's work appeared in several major exhibitions throughout Italy and Europe. At the same time, he was commissioned by Italy's two largest publishers, Mondadori and Rizzoli, for book illustrations. However, he felt restricted in Milan. He wanted more artistic freedom which he believed existed in the United States.
In 1979, Pino emigrated to the US under the sponsorship or Borghi Gallery where he held several shows in New York and Massachusetts. In 1980, after knocking on many doors, Zebra Books Publishers commissioned Pino to do his first book cover. His interpretation was new, fresh and sensual; an illustration so successful that he gained entry into a creative relationship with many leading publishers of Romance novels. Pino's popularity grew within the literary community and he became the artist-in-demand for Zebra, Bantam, Simon and Schuster, Harlequin, Penguin USA and Dell. To date, Pino has illustrated an astonishing 3,000 books! The "Pino Style" has dominated and influenced the market.
Pino has been invited to make several appearances on major TV networks and has been interviewed in national and international journals. In addition, Pino's ability to capture the movements and expressions of his subjects brought him many private commisson for portraits.
Pino passed away last year at the age of 70 leaving behind a rich legacy and a major impact upon the American publishing scene.
Luz Fine Art: 1421 Marlin Avenue, Foster City, CA 94404 650-281-5062 luz@luzfineart.com
