A painter and sculptor, Matthew Lapenta’s work engages with the realities of our everyday lives by challenging our obsession with the constant consumption of social media and entertainment.

Inspired by modern-day internet culture, Lapenta creates bronze sculptures in the form of emojis, an iconic symbol of communication in the twenty-first century. His works explore the relationship and impact of technology in our everyday lives.

Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Lapenta worked as a commercial art director before moving to Venice, California in 2012. He currently lives and works in Venice.