Currency #258 – Italian Phrase "Those Who Leave Carry the Sea in Their Eyes"

This striking circular portrait captures the essence of migration through a poetic and evocative visual language. Painted on a 26 cm diameter treated pine wood panel, this artwork features a delicate yet powerful female profile, seamlessly merging classical realism with a dreamlike atmosphere. The inscription in Italian, "Quelli che partono portano il mare negli occhi", translates to "Those who leave carry the sea in their eyes." The golden-yellow background radiates warmth, contrasting with the deep, introspective gaze of the figure, whose face seems to dissolve into the textures of memory and longing.

Part of Natasha Lelenco’s Currencies series, this work is a meditation on human displacement, emotional landscapes, and the way migration imprints itself on individual identities. The Currencies series, now comprising over 200 unique works, presents a nuanced exploration of movement, belonging, and self-reinvention. The portraiture varies from highly detailed realism to experimental approaches that incorporate street art influences. Each coin-shaped piece reflects the arbitrary nature of borders and how value is assigned to human lives based on origin and class.

Designed to be displayed independently or in modular arrangements, these artworks are sought after for their powerful narratives and striking aesthetics. They have been incorporated into major interior design projects across different cultural contexts. Special pricing is available for multi-piece acquisitions, and custom commissions are welcomed. Contact us for more details.