Graziano Riccio, born in Cosenza in 1979 and known in the art world by his artistic name "Graz," is a contemporary Italian artist who discovered his artistic vocation relatively late in life. After moving to Rome, a city that profoundly influenced his artistic sensibility, Graz embarked on his artistic journey in 2016 at the age of 37. Currently, he lives and works in the stunning coastal town of Civitavecchia, where the sea and sun fuel his brilliant use of colors. This picturesque setting has become an integral part of his artistic inspiration, further enhancing his vibrant palette and dynamic style.
His artistic voyage began with exploring acrylic painting on canvas, but it was the encounter with the Stratigraphic Spatula technique and the guidance of renowned international Art Master Mario Salvo that marked a decisive turning point in his creative approach. This innovative technique, which involves the overlapping of successive layers of color applied with a spatula, allowed Graz to develop a unique and recognizable style.

In May 2022, Graz took a significant step in his career by signing the Manifesto of the "Stratigraphics," an artistic movement that brings together artists united by the use of this particular painting technique. This gesture not only consolidated his position within the contemporary art community but also helped define his identity as an artist.
Graz's art is distinguished by several characteristic elements:
 

• Deformation of reality: His works challenge conventional perception, offering an alternative and often surprising vision of the world.

• Chromatic accentuation: The bold and vivid use of color is a distinctive signature of his work, creating visually impactful compositions.

• Violent use of colors: Graz embraces an intense and vibrant palette that recalls the revolutionary approach of the early 20th-century French Fauvism movement.

• Creative freedom: The artist moves freely between representations of places and presences that emerge from his subconscious and transfigured reinterpretations of observed reality.

• Dystopian projection: Many of his works present an altered and sometimes unsettling vision of reality, inviting the viewer to reflect on future or alternative scenarios.

Graz describes his artistic approach as an attempt to "impress the eye of the beholder, kidnap it and bring it inside the painting." This philosophy manifests in works that challenge conventional perception and invite a deep and transformative visual experience.
His transition from canvas to wooden boards as the primary support for his works represents not only a technical evolution but also a deepening of his material and tactile exploration. This change has allowed the artist to fully exploit the potential of the stratigraphic technique, creating works with unique depth and structural richness.
Despite his relatively young artistic career, Graz has quickly established himself as an original and provocative voice in the Italian contemporary art scene. His work continues to evolve, challenging conventions and inviting viewers to explore new dimensions of visual perception and emotional expression through art. The adoption of the artistic name "Graz" further underscores his distinctive identity in the art world, serving as a powerful brand for his unique artistic vision and style.