A Q & a with Artist Alex Da Corte

HeartWorks is a major exhibition of contemporary art running from April 18th to the 26th here in Philadelphi. This exhibit is not only a chance to see some amazing art, but also a chance to benefit the non-profit Mazzoni Center, a health center and HIV/AIDS service organization. The weeklong exhibit features over 100 contemporary works and performances by artists from Los Angeles, New York, London, and-of course-Philadelphia.

One of the featured artists is Philadelphia-based Alex Da Corte. Da Corte studied film, fine art, and printmaking at Philly's University of the Arts, and each of the disciplines manifests itself in his work. Some of Alex's current work developed from an investigation of the everyday diner as a heaven-like environment. His new work utilizes a mixed-media approach, dealing with unique and varied imagery. We got up with the Da Corte, an artist who clearly prefers to let the "picture speak a thousand words."
Associated Content: Tell us a bit about yourself...
Alex Da Corte: I grew up in Venezuela and then New Jersey. I am from suburbia. I got here by walking slowly up a very big hill. I found out there was a McDonald's on top when I got there.

Associated Content: How early did your creative spirit bloom?
Alex Da Corte: I loved drawing Snoopy and a perfect Mickey Mouse when I was younger. I realized then that this was something I could do for the rest of my life.

Associated Content: But your not doing much Snoopy or Mickey now, so can you describe your art for those of us who don't have much of a liberal arts education...
Alex Da Corte: It is super tacky suburban elegance for all.

Associated Content: Wow! Now you've intrigued me...How did you get involved in HEARTWORKS? How did you get involved with Mazzoni?
Alex Da Corte: I got involved with Heartworks and Mazzoni through Chris Veit.
He is the man who made this happen, and for that I am very grateful.

Associated Content: What is next for Alex? Where else can I see you work?
Alex Da Corte: I am having a show with Jack Sloss at Fleisher-Ollman Gallery the same night of the opening of Heartworks.

HeartWorks @ ICE BOX Project Space, 1400 N. American St, $20, www.inliquid.com/heartworks or call 215-563-0663.