Rancho Mirage modern artist Nicholas Kontaxis creates large-scale abstract
paintings, characterized by a riot of primary colors, despite overwhelming obstacles.
The 22-year- old’s story is one of perseverance and hope. Kontaxis was diagnosed
with an extensive brain tumor at 15 months old which resulted in intractable seizures,
autism, and developmental delay. Intensive medical treatment and behavioral therapy allows him
to lead a full life despite significant communication issues and suffering over 40,000 seizures to
date.
His repetitive inclinations and love of texture and shape helped Kontaxis discover his
life calling as an artist. In the last three years, he has become a prolific painter, creating
more than 100 complex pieces, using heavy body acrylic paints and a battalion of pallet
knives. Most recently, Kontaxis has completed numerous significant commissions,
including those for Kaiser Permanente, where he beat out over 75 established artists, the
new El Paseo Hotel’s AC3 Restaurant, and owners of the Los Angeles Chargers. The
success of his first two exhibitions at the De Re Gallery in LA, and the Gilman
Contemporary in Sun Valley, Idaho, resulted in record crowds, near sell out shows, and
multiple commissions.

BARKINGHAM PET HOTEL CALIFORNIA

This beautiful sculpture designed by Karen and Tony Barone was dedicated to the Barkingham Pet Hotel California on May 3, 2018.