James Rizzi

James Rizzi (Brooklyn, 1950 – New York, 2011) was an American pop art artist. He achieved worldwide recognition in the 1970s thanks to his invention of 3D paper sculptures and 3D magnetic images, which have been inextricably linked to his name ever since. He also built a reputation as a painter of unique works in the acrylic technique, and his playful, colourful style left its mark on a wide range of everyday objects.

James Rizzi discovered his passion for art almost by accident while studying business economics in Florida. He took his first steps by decorating the walls of the student dormitory where he was living.

His works radiate lightness, optimism and a joie de vivre. They are inhabited by yellow taxis, houses with faces and humorous characters. The peaceful coexistence of people of different native languages in New York is depicted as an everyday reality, and the colourful and detailed urban scenes testify to a kind of little marvel. The artist presents his hometown as an exemplary model of togetherness, in which a smile is the universal language that connects people.

Among Rizzi’s most famous motifs include the Rizzi Bird, a stylised bird that appears in numerous variations in his works and has become a trademark of his work.

Looking at James Rizzi’s vivid three-dimensional works, we discover a sense of optimism and inexhaustible curiosity. The world seems bright and filled with small treasures just waiting to be discovered.