CONTACT

Email -nicosia.artstudio@gmail.com (also for e-transfer payments)

Phone – 905.870.5852

From an early age, he knew that his calling was to create art, and he has been honing his skills ever since. Self-taught and always learning, Dino has spent decades perfecting his craft through tireless practice and an innate desire to create.

His passion for art has led him to specialize in ultra-realistic pastel portraits and photographic-like paintings of still life or landscapes using pastels or acrylic paint. The attention to detail in his work is nothing short of breathtaking, and his pieces are often mistaken for photographs due to their incredible realism.

Although Dino had to take an over thirty-year hiatus from painting due to family responsibilities and running his own business, he has recently found his way back to his passion. And he’s back with a bang!

Art Exhibits:

Dino’s artwork has garnered widespread recognition and praise in the local art world. In 2021 he won an award for Art and Culture for the Festitalia, Hamilton. In 2023 Dino participated in the renowned Riverdale Art Walk in Toronto where his art work created a buzz with art lovers and fellow artists. Dino’s solo art exhibit at the AAF (Ancaster Film Fest) in 2023 was a success with over 600 people attending.

In the past 3 years, Dino (along with other outstanding artists) displayed his remarkable art work at the Hamilton Liuna Station’s annual art exhibit.

Dino has appeared in the Hamilton Spectator over the years for his stunning artwork of sports celebrities.

Please refer the Menu bar for samples of his work and feel free to contact Dino to discuss all the options and pricing.

Below: Dino, pictured here in the 1970s, honing his craft and mastering the art of pastel portraiture.”

The following pics display my art shows at Liuna Station in 2023, 2024 and 2025, at the AFF, Riverdale Art Walk

To view recent and older Pastel portraits, as well as a diverse collection of Acrylic paintings that showcase the unique artistry and techniques involved, please refer to the Menu Bar, where you will find an organized selection of Dino’s works. This curated display allows you to appreciate the evolution of styles over time and explore the intricate details that define each piece.

The following are samples of Dino’s outstanding work in pastel and acrylic paint.

Above: Pastel portrait of David Bowie. Most people do not know that Bowie’s eyes were different in pupil size, a unique characteristic that contributed to his enigmatic appearance, paired with a slight difference in colour—one eye a vivid blue, the other a mix of blue and green. This subtle yet fascinating detail has influenced the way he has been depicted in various artworks and has sparked discussions about his distinctive look throughout his career. David Bowie was not just a musical icon; he was a visual phenomenon, and his captivating gaze has often left an indelible mark on those who encountered it.

Above: The distinct look of Albert Einstein with pronounced wrinkles and out of control hair was not only iconic but filled with character, reflecting his brilliant mind and whimsical personality. Each wrinkle told a story of his countless hours of hard work, deep thought, and revolutionary ideas that changed the landscape of physics forever. It was fun to paint, not just because of the challenge of capturing his unique features, but also because I felt as though I was connecting with the genius of a man who dared to think differently.

Above: A portrait of Andrea Bocelli was a challenge to paint, as capturing his essence required a deep understanding of his artistic spirit. Despite his eyes being closed, I wanted him to connect with the viewer on a profound level, conveying the emotion and passion he expresses through his music. I aimed to reflect the warmth of his presence and the intensity of his performances, making sure that even without direct eye contact, the viewer could feel the depth of his soul resonating within the artwork. Through careful attention to detail and a thoughtful color palette, I sought to evoke the feelings his melodies inspire, ultimately bringing the portrait to life in a way that transcends the canvas.

Above: Pastel and charcoal portrait of John Lennon. Note the detail in the hair which gives the painting a more realistic look, capturing the texture and movement with delicate strokes that evoke the essence of his iconic style. The vibrant pastel colors blend seamlessly with the deeper charcoal tones, creating a striking contrast that brings the artwork to life. Furthermore, I emphasized Lennon’s expressive eyes, reflecting a sense of depth and emotion that draws the viewer in, allowing them to appreciate not only his physical likeness but also the spirit of the man who changed the world through music and peace activism.

Above: This acrylic painting of our planet is my original work depicting the 4 life stages of earth. Each stage illustrates a significant moment in the planet’s evolutionary journey, showcasing its beauty, complexity, and vulnerability. This powerful painting was not only created with great care and attention to detail but also holds personal significance, as it served as the image for the front cover of a music LP, composed and performed by my son, Steve Nicosia, called “Matter of Time.” The music beautifully captures the gradual transition of earth, starting from its drastic and chaotic beginnings, surging through epochs of flourishing life, and ultimately leading us to reflect on our home as a precious sanctuary. However, it also poignantly addresses the ultimate tragic fate of our planet, evoking deep emotional responses as it reminds us of the fragile balance we must preserve. This interplay between visual art and music enriches the viewer’s and listener’s experience, intertwining our appreciation of the planet with a sense of urgency and stewardship for its future.

Above: This acrylic painting emphasizes the mesmerizing warm light shining through the trees after an early Winter snowfall, casting a golden hue over the white landscape. The contrast between the soft, powdery snow and the radiant sunlight creates an enchanting scene, evoking a sense of tranquility and hope. As the days gradually lengthen and the warmth begins to seep back into the air, we can almost feel the tender embrace of blooming flowers and the vibrant colours that will soon replace the starkness of Winter, bringing life and joy back to our surroundings.

Above: Pastel paintings of juicy lemons, avocado and red peppers immersed covered in water droplets. This Mediterranean theme glistens with droplets of water, their rich colour and sculptural forms glowing against a dark background. Beloved ingredients throughout Mediterranean kitchens, peppers, lemons and avocados bring warmth, vitality, and bold flavour to the region’s cuisine. These pastel painting celebrates the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean harvest, where sun-ripened produce reflects the intensity, passion, and abundance of the land.

Above: Pastel painting experimenting with a lady in a shower, capturing the delicate moment when water cascades down her face, glistening like tiny diamonds in the light. The challenge of portraying the fluidity and transparency of water adds depth to the artwork, pushing the boundaries of traditional techniques. Despite the difficulties faced during the creation process, the result is not only effective but also thought-provoking and visually intriguing. This piece invites viewers to ponder the themes of vulnerability and serenity, as the interplay between water and skin creates a captivating focal point that resonates on many levels.

ABOVE: Custom, personalized acrylic paintings featuring a wine bottle and glass, designed to beautifully capture the essence of cherished memories and significant moments. The label can be tailored to include the client’s name, birthdate, country of origin, or any other meaningful details that hold sentimental value. Each piece is meticulously crafted to not only represent the subject but also to evoke emotions and tell a unique story, making it a perfect gift for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or housewarming celebrations. Whether displayed in a cozy kitchen or a sophisticated dining room, these personalized artworks serve as a stunning focal point that sparks conversation and admiration, celebrating the individual’s passion for wine and art alike.

Above: Pastel painting. My client wanted a close up of the puppy’s face which accentuates the eyes.

Above: Clint Eastwood pastel portrait. Note the fine details, such as the intricate shading that brings out his signature expressions, capturing the intensity and depth of his character. I utilized soft pastels to create a lifelike representation, allowing the colours to blend seamlessly, enhancing the overall realism of the piece. Each stroke adds dimension, inviting viewers to appreciate the nuances of his features and the emotions conveyed in his gaze.

Above: Pastel painting called “Walking in the Rain”. Note the delicate rain droplets cascading down, each one shimmering with a hint of color as they dance upon the surface of the canvas. This artwork captures the serene beauty of a rainy day, where the vibrant hues of the surroundings blend softly with the muted tones of the overcast sky, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere.

Above: Acrylic painting of a Venice canal, capturing the enchanting beauty of this iconic city. The reference photo was from a picture I took during my visit to this magical city, where the shimmering waters of the canal reflect the vibrant colors of the historic buildings, and the gentle sounds of gondolas gliding by filled the air with romance. Each brushstroke is an attempt to recreate the serene atmosphere that enveloped me as I wandered through the winding streets and admired the intricate architecture that tells a story of centuries gone by.

Above: Acrylic painting of a race car driver. This custom painting was a challenge due to all the background distractions that could easily divert attention from the main subject. I needed for the driver to stand out prominently, showcasing not only their focus and determination but also the dynamic action of the race. To achieve this, I carefully balanced the elements in the background, ensuring that the spectators and photographers were present in the mix without overwhelming the viewer. Each figure in the crowd was painted with just the right amount of detail, allowing them to contribute to the atmosphere while keeping the spotlight firmly on the driver. The vibrant colors and motion captured in the scene create an exhilarating sense of speed, inviting the audience to feel as though they are a part of the thrilling moment.

Above: Acrylic painting of a majestic elephant. This beautiful creature was a challenge to paint due to all the fine details in the skin, which required careful observation and an understanding of how light interacts with texture. The intricate patterns of wrinkles and folds seemed almost endless, pushing me to experiment with various brush techniques. Each stroke had to convey the strength and grace of the elephant, capturing not just its physical form but also the spirit of this magnificent being. Surrounding the elephant, I added a lush background featuring hints of the savannah, emphasizing the natural habitat from which it comes, allowing the viewer to appreciate the harmony between the animal and its environment.

Acrylic painting of an Italian street scene with a red Vespa. Magical.

Above: Acrylic painting of the Toronto Skyline, capturing the vibrant energy and architectural diversity of the city. The artwork features a stunning array of skyscrapers, including the iconic CN Tower with its distinctive height, surrounded by a blend of modern glass structures and historic buildings. As the sun sets in the background, a warm palette of oranges and purples reflects on the windows, highlighting the dynamic atmosphere and inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the bustling life of Toronto. Whether it’s the peaceful waters of Lake Ontario or the bustling streets below, this painting truly encapsulates the essence of Canada’s largest city.

Above: A stunning pastel painting of a majestic white horse galloping freely in the wild, its mane flowing gracefully in the wind, capturing the essence of untamed beauty. The background features a vibrant landscape, with lush green grass swaying gently, and the golden rays of the sun filtering through scattered clouds, creating a picturesque scene that celebrates the spirit of nature and the thrill of freedom.

Above photo: Latest painting of Tiger-Cat’s 2025 East Division MOP, Bo Levi Mitchell. He was truly thrilled and genuinely excited to receive this unexpected presentation, which not only symbolizes his remarkable accomplishments on the field but also serves as a testament to the unwavering support he has received from fans and teammates alike. As he gazed at the vibrant colors and intricate details of the artwork, a sense of nostalgia washed over him, reminding him of the journey that brought him to this prestigious moment in his career. He indicated that he will cherish this painting for years to come, displaying it proudly in his home as a constant reminder of the passion, dedication, and teamwork that defines his life in football.

Above photo: Featured in Hamilton Spectator for painting of Tiger-Cat MOP Jeremiah Masoli, Nov. 10, 2018. See link https://www.thespec.com/sports/hamilton-region/2018/11/10/artist-dino-nicosia-pays-homage-to-hamilton-tiger-cats-quarterback-jeremiah-masoli.html

LEFT: Featured in Hamilton Spectator in 1976, for painting of Dale McCourt, Hamilton FinCup and Detroit Red Wing all star. RIGHT: Painting of Garney Henley in 1972 after being selected the CFL MOP. This painting was presented by me at a Tiger-Cat media gathering.

Painting of Tiger-Cat all star Tom Clements, featured in Hamilton Spectator in 1981. Sponsored and commissioned by Molson Brewery and was presented at the playoff game during halftime.

Above photo: Presented in person a painting of Hamilton Tiger-Cat all star and CFL Outstanding player, Simoni Lawrence. Appeared on Tiger-Cat website and extensive social media exposure.

Painting of Brandon Banks, Tiger-Cat all star and CFL MOP 2021.