Contemporary Art

Born: 1929, San Diego, California; Died January 1, 2001 Stanwood, Washington
Degree: University of Houston - B.SA. Otis Art Institute - M.FA.

Son of the famous metal sculptor, Salvatore Costantino, Ralph spent his early life in the arts working with his father as a Sculptor and Foundry man.

As a young adult, Costantino became interested in painting and color. While he was still attending college, he was given his first contract with a large gallery in Houston. This subsidized him and allowed him to complete his education. From that time on, he was known as a Southern California artist and a Gulf Coast area artist, who successfully supported himself and his family as a painter.

His First 20 years as an artist, his work sold through international distributors and galleries throughout this nation and overseas. Some of his work has been printed and woven into beautiful fabrics and tapestries.

For 20 years, Costantino lived on the island of Maui and then returned to San Diego. He was very much influenced by the colors of the island, and though the beauty of nature surrounded him, he still got his inspiration from his spirit. Today, his bright colors and creative abstracts still reflect that inner spirit. After a couple of years in San Diego and Palm Springs, he returned to Hawaii. With failing health he moved to Stanwood, Washington in December 2000.

Ralph is a remarkable combination of dedicated artist and relaxed, real person. When painting, a different Costantino releases his intense dedication. Sometimes rough and bawdy, sometimes calm and peaceful, but always with endless enthusiasm, Costantino at work in his complete self, drawing inspiration from every occurrence both past and immediate to produce his paintings. Costantino is separate from any established art movement. Color is his forte and the singular quality which establishes his uniqueness.

His wide range of interests is expressed in his paintings which vary in content from childlike innocence to sophisticated compositions reflecting the somberness of today's world. Owners of his paintings are a fiercely loyal group who delight in sharing their interest with friends and at private showings in their homes around the world. ...

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