Ken Valastro (1954-2014) created dynamic oil paintings characterized by bold color contrasts and vigorous brushwork that captured the energy of urban scenes. His signature style featured atmospheric backgrounds punctuated with high-chroma focal points, emphasizing movement and the relationships between elements in each composition. Valastro approached painting as a full-body experience, using sweeping arm movements to apply thick impasto and slashes of color, likening his technique to the controlled boundary-pushing of a championship skier. Beyond city life, his subject matter extended to suburban settings, marinas, and rural scenes featuring vintage machinery like Farmall tractors. A student of the Art Students League of Denver, where he later taught for seven years, Valastro studied under notable artists including Kim English, whom he considered his greatest mentor. Abend Gallery was honored to represent Valastro for many years. His work invited viewers to complete the visual narrative from their own memories and emotions.