Jesse A. Kantu, a graduate of the University of Houston in 2006 with a BFA in Sculpture and a minor in Art History, has built an art career around examining the shared struggles that define human experience across cultures. His work is marked by a deep dive into the fractures that exist within humanity, and how these can be reflected through art. In 2011, he founded Pyramid Art Services, an initiative aimed at helping others uncover their artistic identities. Kantu continued his educational journey by earning an MFA in Painting from Houston Baptist University in 2015. Much of his work addresses the intricacies of human behavior, focusing on the conflicts between self-interest and altruism. His first book, EMERGING—New Contemporary Narratives in the 21st Century, was published in 2020, examining the shifting dynamics of modern life. Today, he lives and works in Houston, using his art as a platform to challenge societal norms and encourage thoughtful reflection.
In his painting The Hourglass (24 x 24 inches, acrylics on canvas), Kantu contemplates the nature of time, mortality, and the choices we make in life. A central figure stands between two contrasting symbols: a vase of flowers representing life on one side, and a deathly sculpture on the other. The scene is framed by a cemetery in the background, highlighting the inevitable end that awaits all. Kantu’s composition invites viewers to think about how they navigate their own choices, particularly the balance between selfish and selfless actions. The painting challenges viewers to reflect on how their actions ripple out into the world and encourages them to consider their broader impact on others.
In Leaving You (40 x 30 inches, acrylics on canvas), Kantu turns his attention to the disintegration of familial bonds. The painting shows a monstrous figure, a representation of jealousy or envy, looming over two smaller forms that symbolize siblings. The ground beneath them is cracked, signaling the broken foundation of family unity. The work speaks to the emotional toll of toxic family relationships and the difficult decision to distance oneself from harmful dynamics in order to survive. Through abstract imagery, Kantu conveys the pain of these fractures while also suggesting the possibility of renewal.
Kissing the Moon (24 x 24 inches, acrylics on canvas) tackles the subject of migration and its impact on American cities. Kantu paints a scene where diverse groups of people blend into the urban landscape while displacing native wildlife, symbolized by snakes. The painting raises questions about how America adjusts to the arrival of new people, offering both opportunities and challenges. It captures the complexity of migration, reflecting the tension between hope and limitation for those seeking a better life in the United States.
In Snake Bitten (48 x 48 inches, acrylics on fabric), Kantu explores the consequences of poor decisions. A pregnant woman is depicted with minimal possessions—each object representing a part of her life—as she is forced out of her home. A snake connects her to her unborn child, symbolizing the repercussions of her self-focused actions. Looming obstacles in the background underscore the hardships she faces. The painting invites viewers to consider how personal choices can create challenges for future generations, particularly when those choices are driven by self-interest.
Kantu’s work is grounded in a symbolic and narrative approach, delving into themes such as time, family, migration, and personal responsibility. Using acrylics, he brings these stories to life, urging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths while leaving space for hope. His art acts as both a mirror and a call to action, reflecting the complexities of human life and challenging individuals to consider the lasting impact of their choices.
