As a child, Charles Pompilius was fascinated by ancient Rome. He was amazed to learn that the last name Pompilus had lineage dating back to Numa Pompilius, the second legendary emperor of Rome. This fascination comforted him in a time when reality seemed confusing. Charles Pompilius knew of his ancient Roman heritage, listened to his parents speak Romanian and talk about the influence of the Roman Empire on the language and heard mass in Latin, all of which he did not quite understand. To make sense of things, Pompilius imagined himself “heir to ancient times.”
Even his imagined past imposed some mystery, though what seemed like more of a fairy tale foreshadowed Pompilius’ development as a painter with classical values. Today, Pompilius is known for his classically inspired paintings that are filled with a sense of mystery.
In each figurative painting, Charles Pompilius attempts to bring together fragments of modernism. Often times, the panels will depict a classically posed, yet contemporary female figure, sometimes nude, in an interior space.
From a historical sense, Pompilius believes that “most modern art movements can be viewed as facets of a larger, earlier tradition.” Pompilius bridges the classical with the modern in paintings to tell stories. “In my painting, I have attempted to reconcile the values of classicism and western European art with the postmodern world.” To do this, Pompilius shows the interaction of the figure within an classical environment, sometimes even alluding to scenes already depicted in art history.
Each realistic and unique oil painting by Charles Pompilius is truly a labor of love, taking several months to complete. Many collectors find his astounding ability to capture figures most appealing, however, the surrounding space, full of props much like a theater set, is equally intriguing.
All images are copyrighted and are the property of their respective owners.
Any reproduction or distribution of these images in whole or in part is a violation of
copyright laws and is strictly prohibited.
Go Back To The Page You Were Viewing
