ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Arcmanoro Niles Discusses Intimate Domestic Paintings and 'Seeker' Creatures in Rachel Uffner Gallery Exhibition

publication · 2026-04-22

From March 8 to April 28, 2019, Arcmanoro Niles showcased "My Heart is Like Paper: Let the Old Ways Die" at the Rachel Uffner Gallery. In a conversation with Virginia Wagner on May 29, 2019, he elaborated on his transition from depicting outdoor landscapes to focusing on intimate interior spaces, utilizing life-sized figures that engage directly with the viewer. Niles employs a unique painting method featuring acrylic bases and oil glazes, creating a distinctive orange foundation. Among his works is "Seekers," which draws inspiration from Egyptian art and medieval marginalia, reflecting subconscious themes of sexuality and violence. His autobiographical pieces, like "Does a Broken Home Become a Broken Family," invite viewers to engage with the psychological intricacies of his art.

Key facts

  • Exhibition "My Heart is Like Paper: Let the Old Ways Die" ran March 8-April 28, 2019
  • Show featured at Rachel Uffner Gallery
  • Arcmanoro Niles shifted from outdoor to domestic interior scenes
  • Artist uses indirect painting technique with acrylic grounds and oil glazes
  • Niles incorporates "Seeker" creatures inspired by Egyptian fertility sculptures
  • Painting "Does a Broken Home Become a Broken Family" depicts Niles' family members
  • Artist eliminated neutrals from his palette after experimenting with skin tones
  • Interview published by artcritical on May 29, 2019

Entities

Artists

  • Arcmanoro Niles
  • Virginia Wagner

Institutions

  • Rachel Uffner Gallery
  • artcritical

Sources