This painting is part of my ongoing exploration of joy, absurdity and the archetypal presence of old age. The portrait of an elderly man, painted in bold, saturated tones, emerges through a rhythmic field of vertical stripes. The geometry does not simply frame him, it becomes a stage, a reminder of how life’s structures surround us, while laughter and presence break through. Here, the smile feels universal, cutting across the rigid pattern to remind us that color, texture and emotion can exist beyond order. The work balances the tension between the strict vertical bands and the vibrant humanity of the face, offering both playfulness and depth. The painting is executed in oil on canvas and is mounted on a wooden stretcher. The painting will be meticulously packaged and shipped directly from Mihai Cotiga's studio, ensuring it reaches collectors in flawless condition. The artwork is hand-signed on the back and includes a certificate of authenticity. Mihai Mircea Cotiga is a Romanian artist whose journey from Turnu Măgurele to Bucharest has been marked by an unrelenting pursuit of curiosity and innovation. His works explore the intersection of art history, photographic manipulation, and AI, pushing the boundaries of traditional oil painting. With a Master's degree in Architecture from the University “Spiru Haret” in Bucharest, his unique perspective bridges the structural precision of architecture with the expressive depth of fine art. Cotiga's paintings, often featuring older figures in dreamlike and surreal settings, weave together threads of history, memory, and a distinct appreciation for the human experience. He primarily works with oil paints, valuing their rich texture and historical gravitas, which allow him to explore light, texture, and emotion in profound ways. His art has been acquired by private collectors worldwide, resonating with those who appreciate both technical mastery and conceptual depth. Exhibitions: 2025 - Group show - Romanian Design Week 2025 - M Society - May 2024 - Group show - Fluidități ale formei (Culturama Festival) - Brașov, Romania - July-August 2023 - Group show - Figures 2023 - CICA Museum - Gimpo, South Korea - August-September 2021 - Group show - Fusion Arts Fair 2021 - Bucharest, Romania - June 2018 - Group show - Singular-Art - Nijmegen, Netherlands - May-September 2016 - Personal exhibition - University "Spiru Haret" - March-April 2013 - Personal exhibition - Museum of Bucharest - November For more of Mihai Cotiga's works, visit his Instagram: @mihaicotigapaints