I try to be fast and spontaneous when I’m painting - that process should be reflected in the final piece. The observer should be able to infer the physicality of the painting process, when looking at the brush strokes and paint drippings. When I throw paint, I can do it with some premeditation - but I can never really predict where the paint will actually fall on the canvas. So, my approach to painting is - in part - based on chance, on small random accidents - it doesn’t rely exclusively on my persistence or my technique. That’s why I don’t feel completely responsible for my paintings - in the sense that, although I can answer for my initial intentions, the final result is always something that I could never anticipate, and something that’s out of my absolute control.

Mario Henrique is a Portuguese painter best known for his contemporary, large scale portraiture. His approach relies on drippings, splashes and paint throws, so that the physicality of the painting process is transparent in the final piece.

Listed in various private collections across Europe, America and Asia, Mario was awarded an Honourable Mention for his participation in the Brasília Biennial of Contemporary Arts 2016 and he is currently represented by the Bill Lowe Gallery and Les Galeries Bartoux, amongst other international galleries. Mario owns a studio/gallery at the Marina, in Cascais (Portugal), where some of his paintings are on permanent exhibition.